Democracy And Traditions Bind India And Israel Together Says Israeli PM At Raisina Dialogue

“Democracy binds India and Israel together and the two nations can grow together. Powerful traditions from ancient cultures but at the same time minds that reach out for new solutions all the time. India and Israel have this in abundance.”

Netanyahu lauded PM Narendra Modi for the work BJP has done in the last three years. He said that he was astounded to see how India has drastically climbed World Bank rankings of Ease of doing business up to 30 places to become the 100th friendliest business destination.

Hinting at Israel’s relationship with India and the US, he said. "The strong survive, the weak don’t survive, you make peace and alliances with the strong," Netanyahu said.

“Growth of military power is dependent on economic power. We have achieved that transition. We are in a never-ending race.” We've achieved a transition to a more liberal economy and we are committed to this path. The future belongs to those who innovate. We are doing it and India is doing it," the Israeli PM further said.

In a direct address from the stage to PM Modi for his next visit to the Jewish state, Netanyahu said. “I hope it will not be too long before your next visit.”

Giving a vote of Thanks for the Israeli PM’s participation in the dialogue, EAM Sushma Swaraj stressed the importance of Indo-Israeli relations.

“PM Netanyahu's visit to India underlines the celebration of 25 years of diplomatic relations between India and Israel,” EAM said.

Earlier today Netanyahu along with his wife Sara Netanyahu went to the city of Taj Agra on a private visit to Taj Mahal. The two posted pictures of the iconic Indian monument and spent about two hours in the Taj complex before making their way back to the Capital.

Netanyahu and his wife will depart for PM Modi’s home state Gujrat. The dignitaries will land at Ahemdabad Airport, from where they will proceed to Sabarmati Ashram and pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi and later depart to Mumbai.