India, Israel eye stronger water, agri & defence ties – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Foreign minister S Jaishankar and his visiting Israeli counterpart Eli Cohen reviewed the strategic partnership between the two countries with focus on enhancing cooperation in defence, security, water and agriculture. Cohen, who also called on PM Narendra Modi later in the day, cut short his three-day visit because of the deteriorating security situation at home following Israel’s bombing of the Gaza Strip, in which three Palestinian militants were killed.
“The main pillars of our strategic partnership – agriculture, water, defence and security – are taking our ties forward. New agreements in water and agriculture today underline the potential to do more. Discussed cooperation in high tech, digital & innovation, as also connectivity, mobility tourism, finance, and health,” tweeted Jaishankar after his meeting with Cohen.
“Noted the progress in I2U2 and cooperation in multilateral forums. Exchanged perspectives on our respective regions, Ukraine and Indo-Pacific. Initialed an agreement in the area of mobility,” he added.
According to an Israel readout, both countries noted progress in I2U2 and held discussions on cooperation in security, economy, technology, innovation, connectivity and health.
Cohen also opened the CII India-Israel business forum. Three MoUs were signed during the event, marking a new era of cooperation and partnership between the business communities of both nations.
Both countries also signed letter of intent to establish two centers of water technology in India.