Tel Aviv, February 25 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly greeted by the Indian community upon his arrival at his hotel in Tel Aviv on Wednesday afternoon. This vibrant reception showcased India's rich cultural and spiritual legacy.

During the event, PM Modi enjoyed various cultural performances and expressed his admiration for the artists who came to honor him. Enthusiastic chants of 'Modi Modi', 'Bharat Mata ki Jai', and 'Vande Mataram' filled the air, reflecting the profound affection for India and the immense popularity of the Indian Prime Minister.

Following a private meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Ben-Gurion International Airport, PM Modi arrived at the hotel. The discussions between the two leaders covered a broad spectrum of topics focused on enhancing bilateral relations, as well as regional matters.

"This is a bond of true friendship. A great friend, my great friend," Netanyahu was heard saying during their meeting, as captured in a video released by the Israeli Prime Minister's office.

"I had a fantastic meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. I expressed my gratitude for the warm reception I received earlier today. It’s a pleasure to return to Israel after nine years. We explored multiple areas for cooperation, such as technology, water management, agriculture, and talent partnerships while also addressing significant regional developments," PM Modi shared on X after their meeting.

The 'private meeting' between the leaders occurred after Netanyahu and First Lady Sara Netanyahu warmly welcomed PM Modi at the airport in a special gesture.

"You are a remarkable leader," Netanyahu remarked after the two engaged in a heartfelt embrace on the tarmac.

The Israeli Prime Minister also engaged in a lively chat with PM Modi, noting that the color of his pocket square perfectly matched Sara's saffron outfit.

"My wife Sara and I welcomed our good friend, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, who has arrived for another significant visit to Israel. Prime Minister Modi previously visited Israel in 2017, and I later reciprocated with a visit to India that was truly extraordinary. We maintain a close personal relationship and communicate frequently, which I believe reflects the strong ties between our nations," Netanyahu posted on X.

"We will partake in a festive reception at the Knesset, visit an innovation event in Jerusalem, and host Prime Minister Modi for a joint dinner. Tomorrow, we will visit Yad Vashem, and afterwards conduct another meeting with our teams, where we will sign multiple agreements in economic, security, and diplomatic realms that will further strengthen cooperation between Israel and India," he added.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his honor at being welcomed by his Israeli counterpart and his wife at the airport, looking forward to discussions and productive outcomes that will enhance the friendship between the two nations.

"I just landed in Israel. I am truly honored to be received by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu at the airport. I am eager to engage in bilateral discussions that will yield fruitful outcomes to strengthen the India-Israel friendship," PM Modi posted on X.

PM Modi's previous visit to Israel in 2017 marked a watershed moment, opening new pathways for collaboration in defense, agriculture, and water management between the two nations. Netanyahu had similarly welcomed PM Modi at the airport during that visit.

In his departure statement on Wednesday, PM Modi expressed anticipation for his meetings with Netanyahu, aimed at further solidifying cooperation across various sectors while addressing regional and global issues.

"India and Israel share a strong and multifaceted strategic partnership that has experienced remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years. I am looking forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu aimed at enhancing our cooperation across various domains, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defense and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people connections," he stated.

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

"I will have the honor of being the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, a moment that will pay tribute to the robust parliamentary and democratic ties that unite our two nations," he added.