Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his landmark address to the Israeli Parliament, the Knesset, shared a significant historical coincidence linking his personal life with the diplomatic history of India and Israel. The Prime Minister emphasized the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, providing a factual account of the events that shaped the bilateral relationship since 1950. According to official reports, the Prime Minister noted that the day he was born coincides with the day India formally extended recognition to the State of Israel.
Historical Link: Birthday and Diplomatic Recognition
Addressing the members of the Knesset, Prime Minister Modi revealed that there is a special connection between his birth and the commencement of formal diplomatic recognition between India and Israel. He stated that on September 17, 1950, the day he was born, India officially recognized Israel as a sovereign nation. Reflecting on his previous visit nine years ago as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel, he expressed immense pleasure in returning to a land for which he has always felt a deep affinity. This historical alignment serves as a symbolic foundation for the strengthening ties between the two democracies.
Condolences for Victims of October 7 Attacks
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to express profound grief over the terrorist attacks carried out by Hamas on October 7. On behalf of India, he extended heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in what he described as a barbaric act of terror. Prime Minister Modi stated that India understands the pain of the Israeli people and stands in solidarity with them during these challenging times. He emphasized that the destruction of lives and the suffering of families caused by such attacks are deeply felt by the Indian people, reaffirming India's unwavering support for Israel.
Zero Tolerance Policy Against Terrorism
Reiterating India's firm stance on global security, Prime Minister Modi asserted that no cause can justify the killing of innocent civilians. He maintained that terrorism can't be rationalized under any circumstances. Drawing parallels between the experiences of both nations, he recalled the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, which also claimed the lives of Israeli citizens. The Prime Minister emphasized that India maintains a policy of 'Zero Tolerance' towards terrorism, stressing that there should be no double standards when dealing with this global menace.
Call for Coordinated Global Action Against Terror
Prime Minister Modi highlighted that the primary objective of terrorism is to destabilize societies, hinder economic development, and erode mutual trust. He called for a sustained and coordinated global action plan to combat terrorism, noting that a threat to peace anywhere is a threat to peace everywhere. He affirmed that India remains committed to supporting all international efforts aimed at achieving permanent peace and regional stability. The Prime Minister urged the global community to unite in its resolve to eliminate the infrastructure of terror to ensure a secure future for all.
Bilateral Cooperation and Strategic Partnership
In his concluding remarks regarding the bilateral relationship, the Prime Minister spoke about the expanding scope of cooperation between India and Israel, while he noted that the partnership has evolved beyond traditional sectors to include advanced technology, water management, and agricultural innovation. According to officials, the Prime Minister's address underscored the shared values of democracy and resilience that bind the two nations. He expressed confidence that the strategic partnership would continue to grow, contributing to the prosperity of both countries and the stability of the wider region.