Tel Aviv, Feb 25 (NationPress) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday commended PM Narendra Modi for his robust leadership as the Indian leader arrived in Tel Aviv for a two-day State Visit. In a heartfelt welcome, Netanyahu and First Lady Sara Netanyahu greeted PM Modi at the Ben-Gurion airport during a significant ceremony.

"You are a remarkable leader," Netanyahu remarked after the two leaders shared a warm embrace on the tarmac.

The Israeli Prime Minister engaged in a lively discussion with PM Modi, noting that the hue of PM Modi's pocket square perfectly complemented Sara's saffron attire.

Later, Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude for the warm reception by his Israeli counterpart and his wife at the airport in Tel Aviv, eagerly anticipating discussions that would enhance the friendship between the two nations. On X, PM Modi shared, "I have arrived in Israel. I am truly honored to be welcomed by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu at the airport. I look forward to engaging in bilateral talks and fruitful outcomes that will fortify the India-Israel relationship."

This marks PM Modi's first visit to Israel since 2017. Both leaders greeted each other enthusiastically on Wednesday, showcasing their enduring camaraderie and friendship that has elevated relations between the two countries over the past decade.

During this visit, PM Modi is set to hold discussions with Netanyahu, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, deliver a speech at the Knesset (Israeli Parliament), and participate in various other events.

Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), remarked that Israel is a key partner for India in strategic and technological realms, with deep collaborations in science, technology, innovation, defense, and agriculture.

In a post on X, Jaiswal noted, "Shalom Israel! Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Israel. This is PM Modi's second visit to Israel in nine years. In a touching gesture, PM Narendra Modi was welcomed by Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife, Mrs. Sara Netanyahu, at the airport, receiving a special guard of honor."

"Israel stands as a significant partner to India across strategic and technological sectors, fostering deep cooperation in science, technology, innovation, defense, and agriculture. Our relationship is built on mutual trust, shared objectives, and a growing alignment in emerging technologies," he added.

PM Modi's last visit to Israel in 2017 opened new avenues for collaboration in defense, agriculture, and water management. Netanyahu had also welcomed PM Modi at the airport during that visit.

In his departure statement on Wednesday, PM Modi expressed his anticipation for discussions with Netanyahu that aim to further bolster cooperation in various sectors and address regional and global challenges.

"India and Israel enjoy a strong and multifaceted Strategic Partnership, which has seen remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu that will enhance our collaboration across various domains, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defense and security, trade and investment, and people-to-people connections," he stated.

During his visit, PM Modi will also meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog to discuss various bilateral matters.

"I will have the privilege of being the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Knesset, an event that will honor the robust parliamentary and democratic ties binding our two nations," he remarked.

The Prime Minister expressed eagerness to connect with the Indian diaspora, "who have long nurtured the special friendship between India and Israel."

"I am confident that my State Visit will further strengthen the enduring bonds between our two countries, establish new objectives for our Strategic Partnership, and advance our shared vision for a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future," PM Modi concluded.