PM Modi To Become First Indian Prime Minister To Address Israel’s Parliament During State Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to become the first Indian Prime Minister to address Israel's Parliament during a two-day State visit starting Wednesday (February 25). Modi described the planned speech at the Knesset as a tribute to the democratic and parliamentary linkages between India and Israel.

Speaking ahead of departure in a statement shared with a file photo on X, Modi said India and Israel now share a strong, wide-ranging strategic partnership marked by steady growth and energy. Modi added that discussions during the visit would aim to give this cooperation fresh direction.

India-Israel strategic partnership to guide Knesset address

Modi stated, "I will also have the honour of becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that would be a tribute to the strong parliamentary and democratic ties that bind our two nations," underlining how political institutions in both countries shape the strategic partnership.

Describing broader aims, Modi said he was sure the journey would deepen trust between New Delhi and Tel Aviv and support shared long-term goals. "I am confident that my State Visit will further consolidate the enduring bonds between the two countries, set new goals for the Strategic Partnership, and advance our shared vision for a resilient, innovative and prosperous future," he said.

India-Israel strategic partnership to cover key cooperation areas

The visit comes at the invitation of Modi's "dear friend Prime Minister Netanyahu." Outlining the agenda, Modi said, "I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu aimed at further strengthening our cooperation across various domains, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management... defence and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people ties," while also noting plans to review regional and global issues.

During the two-day programme, Modi will also call on Israeli President Isaac Herzog and engage with members of the Indian diaspora, who Modi said have supported India-Israel friendship over many years. Modi indicated that these community interactions, together with high-level talks, are expected to reinforce the India-Israel strategic partnership on multiple fronts.