Prime Minister Narendra Modi is embarking on a visit to Israel on July 4-6. He will be the first Indian PM to visit the Jewish state.

“During the visit, the Prime Minister will have detailed discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu on all matters of mutual interest and will also call on President Rivlin. Elements of his programme include homage to Indian soldiers at the Indian Cemetery in Haifa and address to the Indian community at an event in Tel Aviv,” stated a Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release.

The visit is taking place to mark 25 years of diplomatic ties between both countries.

“India established diplomatic relations with Israel in 1992 and since then the relationship has evolved into a multi-dimensional partnership. This year both the countries are commemorating 25 years of diplomatic relations and the visit of P.M. will provide an impetus for deeper bilateral engagement in areas of mutual interest,” the release stated.

While the bilateral with Netanyahu will take place on July 4, Modi will be meeting their President Rivlin on July 5 and also their leader of opposition Isaac Herzog.

Days before Modi’s visit, the Israeli cabinet approved decisions to strengthen ties with India, including setting up of a $40 million joint fund for greater business cooperation between Indian and Israeli businesses.

However, the highlight of the trip is clearly going to be defence cooperation. Agreements are going to be signed in defence sector under the ‘Make in India’ programme, sources told BusinessLine.

In order to strengthen defence and security ties, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has already visited Israel paving the way for PM’s visit.

Several agreements are expected to be signed in the realm of agriculture, water resources, cyber security and tourism, sources added.

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