India and Israel recently held crucial talks, aiming to forge a united front against terrorism with a “zero tolerance” policy. The discussions also focused on deepening cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and regional connectivity. India expressed optimism that the U.S.-backed Gaza peace plan would establish lasting stability in the area.
These important matters were at the forefront of discussions between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his Israeli counterpart, Gideon Sa’ar. Both nations are also exploring a potential visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in the coming months, signalling further diplomatic engagement.
A key topic was the progression of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), seen as a vital initiative for bolstering regional connectivity and economic ties.
During his opening remarks, Minister Jaishankar highlighted the shared challenge of terrorism faced by both India and Israel.
He emphasized their strong, reliable relationship, stating, “We have stood together in testing times and built a bond marked by deep trust and reliability. Both our nations are confronting the unique challenge of terrorism.”
Jaishankar stressed the critical need for a global strategy of “zero-tolerance” against terrorism, regardless of its form or manifestation.
Israeli Foreign Affairs Minister Gideon Sa’ar, during his three-day visit to India, detailed Israel’s ongoing confrontation with what he termed “radical terror states,” including Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Houthis in Yemen.
Sa’ar reiterated Israel’s firm stance, stating, “The complete dismantling of Hamas’s terrorist infrastructure is central to President Trump’s peace plan. Hamas must be disarmed, and Gaza must be demilitarized. This is a non-negotiable point for us.”
He also gratefully acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering support for Israel.
Sa’ar highlighted, “We remember that he was the first world leader to contact Prime Minister Netanyahu following Hamas’s horrific October 7 massacre, and that gesture will not be forgotten.”
Referring to the Gaza peace plan, Minister Jaishankar affirmed that India has been closely monitoring the situation.
He expressed, “We welcome the safe return of the hostages and the dignified recovery of those who tragically perished. India wholeheartedly supports the Gaza Peace Plan and hopes it will lead to a durable and sustainable resolution for the region.”
This comprehensive 20-point Gaza peace plan brought about a crucial ceasefire in the region. Its initial phase saw Hamas release all remaining hostages, while Israel, in turn, released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
The foreign ministers also engaged in discussions regarding strategies to significantly boost bilateral trade.
Jaishankar pointed to recent achievements, stating, “The successful finalization of our bilateral investment agreement is a significant step forward. It’s also worth noting the recent visits from your ministerial colleagues across key sectors like agriculture, economy, tourism, and finance, indicating robust engagement.”
He further added that India’s advancements in rail, road, and port infrastructure have opened new avenues, and Indian businesses are eager to explore opportunities in Israel, an area India intends to prioritize.
He suggested that both nations could further their collaborative efforts in agriculture, technological innovation, semiconductors, and cybersecurity.
Jaishankar also noted the increasing presence of Indian workers in Israel, facilitated by their mobility agreement. He expressed hope that any pending issues affecting these workers would be addressed, strengthening this aspect of their relationship.
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of exchanging views on regional and global strategic matters, given the depth of their cooperative ties.