Minister Goyal's Israel Visit: A Boost to India-Israel Economic Ties

During Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal's official trip to Israel, discussions with top Israeli officials focused on accelerating bilateral cooperation in agriculture, technology, and trade. Key engagements included meetings with ministers, visits to technological centers, and participation in economic forums, emphasizing the mutual commitment to enhance bilateral economic and technological collaboration.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal recently embarked on an official visit to Israel, aiming to bolster bilateral ties in sectors including agriculture, technology, innovation, and trade. On November 21, Minister Goyal held a significant meeting with Israeli Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Avi Dichter, focusing on agricultural collaboration enhancement.

Minister Dichter provided insights into Israel's comprehensive 25-year food security plan and its cutting-edge seed-improvement and water-reuse technologies. During his visit, Minister Goyal toured the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, where he witnessed Israel's groundbreaking technological advancements, including drip irrigation, stent technologies, and the celebrated Iron Dome system.

The Indian minister observed Israel's progressive mobility solutions, thanks to a demonstration by Mobileye, and explored community-driven innovations at Kibbutz Ramat Rachel. These experiences underscored Israel's innovative prowess and its holistic approach to sustainability and rural development.

On his visit's first day, Minister Goyal conferred with Israel's Minister of Economy Nir Barkat, scrutinizing current trade dynamics and new cooperation avenues. The discussions culminated in the India-Israel Business Forum, a platform of vibrant international networking. There, Minister Goyal emphasized the pivotal role of trust in India-Israel relations, highlighting prospects in sectors such as fintech, artificial intelligence, and defence.

Engagements with top Israeli companies and a significant dialogue with the Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich further accentuated the shared aspirations for stronger investment ties and financial technology collaboration. Closing a pivotal chapter of the visit was the signing of the Terms of Reference for the forthcoming India-Israel Free Trade Agreement, establishing a pathway for elevated bilateral trade and investment.

Minister Goyal's itinerary, encompassing high-level meetings, technical visits, and public addresses, encapsulated the robust bilateral commitment to deepening strategic collaborations. The trip reinforced the foundational ties between India and Israel, poised for a future of enhanced economic and technological integration. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)