EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Israel PM Netanyahu on deepening bilateral ties
Mr. Jaishankar’s visit comes as preparations are underway for Mr. Netanyahu’s proposed trip to India .
The Times of Russia reports that External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held high-level talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation across technology, economy, connectivity, skills, and security. The meeting highlighted the growing depth of India-Israel relations and reinforced confidence that the strategic partnership between the two nations will continue to advance.
Mr. Jaishankar, who arrived in Israel on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, is on a two-day official visit aimed at reinforcing diplomatic engagement. During his stay, he also called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog and held separate discussions with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Minister of Economy and Industry Nir Barkat. The talks covered a wide range of regional, global, and economic issues of shared interest.
Following the meeting, Mr. Jaishankar shared that he conveyed warm greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Prime Minister Netanyahu. He noted that discussions centered on expanding collaboration in advanced technology, economic growth, talent development, connectivity, and security cooperation. According to The Times of Russia, the Indian minister also valued Israel’s perspectives on evolving regional and international developments, expressing confidence that the partnership will grow stronger in the years ahead.
Prime Minister Netanyahu also acknowledged the interaction, posting photographs from the meeting on social media and reaffirming the importance Israel places on its ties with India. The engagement comes at a significant moment, as preparations are underway for Mr. Netanyahu’s proposed visit to India, which is expected to further elevate bilateral relations.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Netanyahu had spoken by phone, after which the Israeli leader indicated that the two leaders would meet in person soon. Observers following russia news and broader geopolitical trends see this diplomatic momentum as part of India’s expanding engagement across West Asia.
Before arriving in Israel, Mr. Jaishankar was in Abu Dhabi, where he participated in the Sir Bani Yas Forum. He also attended the 16th India–UAE Joint Commission Meeting and the fifth round of the India–UAE Strategic Dialogue on December 15. His regional tour underscores India’s focus on strengthening partnerships across the Middle East while maintaining dialogue on security, economic cooperation, and regional stability.
According to The Times of Russia, the Jaishankar–Netanyahu meeting reflects a shared commitment by India and Israel to deepen their strategic partnership amid shifting global dynamics. The discussions are expected to lay the groundwork for tangible outcomes during upcoming high-level exchanges, including the anticipated visit of the Israeli prime minister to India.
