Tel Aviv, Feb 26: India and Israel have formally upgraded their bilateral relationship to a “Special Strategic Partnership” following extensive discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The elevation of ties on Thursday was accompanied by a mutual commitment to finalize a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in the near future.
During a joint media statement, Prime Minister Modi asserted that the security interests of India are inextricably linked to the stability of the Middle East. He maintained that New Delhi has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Prime Minister Modi declared that humanity must never become a victim of conflict and stated that India fully supports the current path toward peace.
The two nations solidified their cooperation by signing 17 agreements spanning sectors such as artificial intelligence, maritime heritage, and digital health. A notable highlight of the diplomatic visit was the decision to establish a partnership in critical and emerging technologies, which will focus on quantum computing and critical minerals. Additionally, an agreement was reached to enable the use of India’s Unified Payment Interface (UPI) in Israel.
Defense remains a cornerstone of the relationship, with both leaders pledging to expand joint production and development of military hardware. Officials noted that the two sides discussed the potential for incorporating elements of Israel’s Iron Dome system into India’s proposed “Sudarshan Chakra” air defense shield. Prime Minister Modi affirmed that the trust-based defense cooperation between the two countries would now move toward greater technology transfer.
Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the future belongs to those who innovate, declaring that India and Israel are determined to seize that future together. The leaders also discussed regional connectivity projects, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), signaling a shared vision for long-term economic integration.
