Modi and Netanyahu Sign Agreements, Highlight AI, Quantum and Civil Nuclear Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met on Thursday with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a day after delivering a historic address at the Knesset. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also attended the meeting.

Prior to their public remarks, the two leaders oversaw the exchange of multiple bilateral agreements aimed at expanding cooperation between India and Israel.

Netanyahu praised the deepening ties, saying cooperation between the two nations “is beyond imagination.” He emphasized innovation as a shared national strength. “The future belongs to innovation, and Israel and India are two countries of innovation,” Netanyahu said, commending Modi for what he described as the efficiency of his government.

In a personal aside, Netanyahu noted his long-standing affinity for India, revealing that his second date with his wife, Sara, took place at an Indian restaurant in Tel Aviv.

Focus on Critical Technologies and Trade

Modi highlighted expanding collaboration in advanced sectors, describing both countries as “engines of growth” driven by diplomatic and economic investment. He said current cooperation centers on critical technologies, including artificial intelligence and quantum research, and pledged deeper knowledge-sharing in civilian nuclear energy.

“Our teams are working hard to negotiate an ambitious free trade agreement,” Modi said, adding that such a deal would unlock significant untapped trade potential.

He concluded his joint remarks by reaffirming India’s commitment to peace and continued efforts toward stability in the region.

‘Nothing Can Justify Terrorism’

In his address to the Knesset on Wednesday, Modi thanked Speaker Amir Ohana for the invitation, noting that he is the first Indian prime minister to address the Israeli parliament.

“We feel your pain and share your grief following the Hamas attack on October 7,” Modi said. Referring to the 2008 Mumbai attacks, he added: “Nothing can justify terrorism. We remember the attacks in Mumbai and the lives lost in that attack.”

While acknowledging the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Modi stressed the importance of maintaining hope. “The path to peace is not easy,” he said, underscoring India’s support for diplomatic efforts.

He concluded his speech with the declaration, “The people of Israel are alive.” At the end of the ceremony, Ohana presented Modi with the “Knesset Decoration.”