Modi-Netanyahu Upgrade India-Israel Bond: Focus on Defence, AI, and Trade Boom

On his State Visit to Israel, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held official talks with the Prime Minister of Israel, H.E. Mr. Benjamin Netanyahu, in Jerusalem on February 26, 2026.

The two Prime Ministers engaged in comprehensive discussions covering the entire gamut of the India-Israel partnership. Reflecting the deep trust and friendship between the two countries, the leaders decided to elevate the bilateral relationship to a “Special Strategic Partnership for Peace, Innovation and Prosperity”. This elevation is emblematic of the growing convergence of interests and the shared vision of both countries for a secure and prosperous future.

Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the progress made in bilateral cooperation across all domains and agreed to further expand collaboration in the fields of trade and investment, defence and security, space, energy, critical technologies, cyber security, education, scientific research and innovation. They also emphasized the transformative potential of the India-Israel partnership in agriculture, water management, start-ups, fintech, digital healthcare, biotechnology and advanced pharma. The two leaders welcomed the new initiatives to expand mobility partnership, which would give a further boost to people-to-people ties. Calling for early conclusion of the proposed Free Trade Agreement, they noted that the Bilateral Investment Treaty, India-Israel Innovation Bridge, India-Israel Innovation Centre for Agriculture and India-Israel Industrial R&D and Innovation Fund would significantly enhance economic, entrepreneurial and scientific collaborations between the two countries. They also called for greater collaboration in the fields of AI, Semiconductors, Quantum and other cutting-edge technologies, synergising India’s talented workforce and Israel’s innovation.

The two leaders also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. Prime Minister conveyed his support for the Gaza Peace Plan and hoped that the initiative would bring peace and stability to the region. The two leaders also called for closer cooperation between the two countries on IMEC and I2U2 initiatives. They also expressed their resolve to strengthen the global fight against terrorism. Prime Minister thanked Prime Minister Netanyahu for the support extended by Israel in India’s fight against terrorism.