New Delhi, Feb 23 (NationPress) The Ambassador of Israel to India, Reuven Azar, expressed enthusiasm on Monday about the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing that both nations are poised to advance significantly during this official trip.

In a video message shared on X, Azar remarked, "Namaste, this is a pivotal moment for the relationship between India and Israel. We eagerly anticipate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Israel. When India and Israel unite, it's more than just a meeting; it's a partnership rooted in trust, fueled by innovation, and informed by a profound understanding of contemporary challenges. During this visit, we will make decisive progress."

He pointed out that the two countries are on the verge of finalizing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and will enhance their defense collaboration by revising security accords during PM Modi's stay.

"Regarding security and defense, India and Israel have partnered closely for many years, and we take pride in this robust cooperation. However, the global landscape is evolving rapidly, as are the threats we face. To address these changes, we will strengthen our defense ties through updated security agreements, enabling us to collaborate on more sensitive initiatives and develop technological solutions together.

"Additionally, our economic partnership is gaining significant momentum. We have signed a bilateral investment treaty and are on track to finalize a Free Trade Agreement, ideally within this year," he added.

Azar emphasized that PM Modi's visit will be instrumental in establishing collaborations in sectors such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Quantum technology, and Cybersecurity. He noted that the relationship between India and Israel will also progress in other vital areas like transportation, water management, agriculture, and academic collaboration.

"Furthermore, the visit will be crucial for fostering partnerships in AI, Quantum technology, and Cybersecurity. Israel is keen to see Indian infrastructure firms investing in Israel; we aim to streamline our financial collaborations and stimulate innovation. Other essential sectors, including transportation, water, agriculture, and academic partnerships, will also see advancements during this visit. India and Israel are not merely partners; we are true friends shaping a shared future," he concluded.

On Sunday, PM Modi warmly acknowledged a personal tribute from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, where Netanyahu referred to PM Modi as a "dear friend" and praised his upcoming visit as a landmark moment in bilateral relations.

In response to a video shared by Netanyahu on X, PM Modi stated, "Thank you, my friend, Prime Minister Netanyahu. I completely concur with you regarding the bond between India and Israel, as well as the multifaceted nature of our bilateral relations. India greatly values its enduring friendship with Israel, founded on trust, innovation, and a shared commitment to peace and progress. I look forward to our discussions during my impending visit to Israel."

Netanyahu had shared a video from the cabinet meeting on X, highlighting PM Modi’s visit as a historic occasion that underscores the strength of the India-Israel alliance.

He articulated a vision to create a broader "axis of nations" in the Middle East—an alliance of like-minded countries united "against radical forces" and dedicated to stability, security, and technological progress.

Notably, Israeli PM Netanyahu emphasized his personal connection with PM Modi, highlighting their frequent communications and mutual visits, describing the Indian leader not merely as a partner but as a "personal friend."

Detailing PM Modi's engagements in Israel, Netanyahu announced, "On Wednesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive. He will address the Knesset, and I am confident you will all be present. We will also host an innovation event in Jerusalem and visit Yad Vashem together. Additionally, we will advance collaboration in high-tech, AI, and Quantum sectors. I mention AI and Quantum not as future concepts but as current realities, and we aspire to position ourselves among the world's leading nations in these fields," Netanyahu stated.

This visit marks PM Modi’s second trip to Israel, following his 2017 visit, which opened new avenues of cooperation in defense, agriculture, and water management.