Modi in Israel: "No double standards on terrorism; back Gaza peace plan"

New Delhi: India, like Israel, has an uncompromising policy of zero tolerance for terrorism, with no double standards, and supports all efforts for durable peace and regional stability, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while addressing the Israeli Parliament on Wednesday.

Speaking to a gathering of leaders across political lines, the PM said India firmly supports the Gaza Peace Initiative and believes it holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all people of the region.

Modi, who is the first Indian PM to address the Israeli Parliament, is scheduled to hold discussions across a wide range of sectors during the state visit as the two countries seek to elevate their strategic partnership.


"Terrorism aims to destabilise societies, block development, and erode trust. Countering terrorism requires sustained and coordinated action, because terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere. That is why India supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability," the PM said.

Terming the strong defence partnership between the two countries of vital importance, the PM said both sides are committed to expanding trade, strengthening investment flows, and promoting joint infrastructure development.

"Our bilateral goods trade has grown manifold in recent years. But it does not reflect the full scope of opportunity. That is why our teams are working hard to negotiate an ambitious Free Trade Agreement. It will unlock the vast untapped potential in our trade relationship," he said.

The PM also referred to formats such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the I2U2 framework between India, Israel, the UAE and the US, on which the two nations are working closely.

The PM made a case for expanding bilateral engagement across several sectors in the coming years. "For the last few years, India has been the fastest-growing major economy in the world. Soon, we will be among the top three economies globally. At the same time, Israel is a powerhouse of innovation and technological leadership. This creates a natural foundation for a forward-looking partnership," he said, adding that the friendship between India and Israel remains a source of strength in an uncertain world.

Earlier in the day, the PM was given a red-carpet welcome in Tel Aviv, with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and wife Sara personally receiving him at the airport.