India-Israel Strategic Partnership
During a visit to New Delhi, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar emphasized the strategic partnership between India and Israel, highlighting their mutual focus on counterterrorism and other areas of cooperation. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed a commitment to deepening this partnership, noting India's support for Gaza peace and a mutual desire to combat terrorism.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Counterterrorism and Security:
- Both nations face terrorism as a significant challenge, advocating for a global zero-tolerance approach.
- Discussion on tackling "terror states" like Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
- Cybersecurity and Technology:
- Focus on cooperation in cybersecurity and semiconductor technology.
- Plan for participation in the AI Impact Summit in India.
- Infrastructure and Renewable Energy:
- Indian companies are interested in Israeli infrastructure opportunities, including rail, road, and port development.
- Agriculture and Innovation:
- Emphasis on extending cooperation in agricultural innovation.
- Regional Connectivity:
- Support for regional connectivity projects such as I2U2 and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
Mutual Acknowledgments and Future Prospects
Sa’ar acknowledged India's response to regional issues, and Jaishankar highlighted India's expanding infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. There is a growing presence of Indian skilled workers in Israel, with ongoing discussions to address their concerns.
Geopolitical Context and Strategic Dialogues
- Regional Stability:
- Israel's focus on radical terror as a mutual threat and the necessity of uprooting terror states for regional security.
- Strategic Dialogues:
- Engagements with figures such as National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to confront common challenges, emphasizing a long-term strategic partnership.
This visit by Gideon Sa’ar marks an important step in solidifying the strategic partnership between India and Israel, with future visits anticipated, including one by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.