Sushma Swaraj calls on Benjamin Netanyahu, discusses India-Israel strategic ties, counter-terrorism co-operation

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and discussed various aspects of the Indo-Israel ties aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership.

According to a statement by Netanyahu's media adviser, the Israeli prime minister told Swaraj that there is a lot of enthusiasm for improving ties not only in the meetings at the level of government and leaders but also among the people of the two countries.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj meets Israel prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Twitter @meaindia

"We are here in India on a historic visit. It is important for the state of Israel that one of the major powers (India) wants to develop close relations in many areas — economics, trade, security and agriculture," the statement quoting Netanyahu as saying during his meeting with Swaraj.

The two also had a discussion on the work done by the two countries in combating terror.

Swaraj told Netanyahu that India was very excited to receive him and emphasised on the "warm and special" friendship between the two countries.

MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted:

EAM @SushmaSwaraj called on @IsraeliPM Benjamin Netanyahu. Warm and engaging conversation on various aspects of our bilateral ties aimed at strengthening our strategic partnership. #ShalomNamaste pic.twitter.com/u50qosUxmM

— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 14, 2018

Netanyahu arrived in New Delhi on Sunday on a six-day visit during which he will hold extensive talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, who received him at the airport, setting aside protocol.