Tel Aviv, Feb 25 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a private discussion with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu at the Ben-Gurion International Airport on Wednesday, immediately following his arrival for a two-day State Visit. The leaders deliberated on various topics intended to enhance bilateral relations.

"This represents a bond of genuine friendship. A wonderful friend, my dear friend," Netanyahu remarked as he welcomed PM Modi, a moment captured in a video released by the Israeli Prime Minister's office.

PM Modi shared on X, "Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. I expressed my gratitude for the warm reception earlier today. It feels fantastic to return to Israel after nine years. We explored numerous areas for potential collaboration, including technology, water management, agriculture, and talent partnerships. Additionally, we discussed significant developments in the region."

The private meeting occurred after Netanyahu and First Lady Sara Netanyahu greeted PM Modi at the airport, showcasing a special gesture of hospitality.

"You are a remarkable leader," Netanyahu said following a heartfelt embrace between the two leaders on the tarmac.

Netanyahu also engaged in a lively discussion with PM Modi, pointing out that the color of PM Modi's pocket square beautifully complemented Sara's saffron outfit.

Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi expressed his honor at being welcomed by his Israeli counterpart and his wife at the airport, eagerly anticipating discussions that would yield fruitful results, further solidifying the friendship between the two nations.

"I have landed in Israel. It is an immense honor to be received by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Mrs. Netanyahu at the airport. I look forward to bilateral discussions that will strengthen the India-Israel friendship," PM Modi posted on X.

His last visit to Israel in 2017 marked the beginning of new partnerships in defense, agriculture, and water management. Netanyahu similarly welcomed PM Modi at the airport during that visit.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, highlighted that Israel is a vital partner for India in strategic and technological sectors, with significant cooperation in science, technology, innovation, defense, and agriculture.

In a post on X, Jaiswal remarked, "Shalom Israel! Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Israel. This visit marks PM Modi’s second trip to Israel in nine years. In a warm gesture, Prime Minister Netanyahu and his wife, Mrs. Sara Netanyahu, welcomed PM Modi at the airport, where he was also given a special guard of honor."

He added, "Israel plays a crucial role as a partner to India in strategic and technological fields, characterized by deep cooperation in science and technology, innovation, defense, and agriculture. Our relationship is founded on mutual trust, shared priorities, and an increasing alignment in future technologies."

In his departure statement, PM Modi expressed anticipation for his engagements with Netanyahu, aimed at further enhancing cooperation across various sectors and discussing both regional and global issues.

"India and Israel enjoy a strong and multifaceted Strategic Partnership that has seen remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu focused on further strengthening our collaborations in domains such as science, technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defense, security, trade, investment, and people-to-people relations," he noted.

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

"I will have the privilege of becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that symbolizes the strong parliamentary and democratic ties between our nations," he expressed.

PM Modi is eager to connect with the Indian diaspora, who have long fostered the special friendship between India and Israel. "I am confident that my State Visit will further strengthen the enduring ties between our two countries, set new objectives for the Strategic Partnership, and advance our shared vision for a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future," he added.