 "External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar meets Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar (ANI)")
India has publicly voiced its support for the Gaza Peace Plan, with External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S. Jaishankar expressing hope that the initiative will lead to a “durable and lasting solution” in the region. The EAM made the statement during a high-level meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar in New Delhi.
EAM Jaishankar began the dialogue by acknowledging recent positive developments, stating, “We have been following developments in your region with very close attention. We welcome the return of the hostages and the remains of those who, unfortunately, lost their lives,” said Jaishankar.
The most significant aspect of the meeting was India’s official endorsement of the ongoing peace efforts. The EAM affirmed, “India supports the Gaza Peace Plan and hopes that it paves the way for a durable and lasting solution.”
EAM Jaishankar pointed to the recent signing of the Bilateral Investment Agreement as a significant milestone, calling it a “notable step” in cementing the economic relationship.
Impact Shorts
More Shorts“It is noteworthy that your ministerial colleagues dealing with agriculture, economy, tourism and finance have all visited us recently,” Jaishankar said.
The EAM presented India’s rapid development—particularly in rail, road, and port infrastructure, renewable energy, and health—as a major avenue for collaboration, stating that Indian businesses are now “very keen to explore opportunities in Israel.”
Beyond traditional trade, the focus is increasingly shifting to future-ready sectors. The EAM reaffirmed a “very strong record of working together in agriculture and in innovation” and highlighted that cooperation in semiconductors and cyber has become “more relevant now.” Looking ahead, Jaishankar announced that India is hosting the AI Impact Summit next year in February and eagerly anticipates Israel’s strong presence.
Crucially, the EAM also addressed the growing presence of Indian workers in Israel under existing mobility understandings. While acknowledging that these workers “have some issues which need attention,” he expressed hope that this vital “dimension of our ties” could be effectively advanced. This comprehensive review sets the stage for a multi-faceted strategic alliance that spans high-tech collaboration, economic investment, and the movement of skilled labour.
‘India is the future’
The Israeli Foreign Minister was effusive in his praise, framing India’s rise as a defining global trend. “I believe that India is the future, I told you that,” Sa’ar told EAM Jaishankar. He highlighted India’s dual strength in governance and economics, noting, “India is the world’s largest democracy and the fastest-growing economy. India is a global superpower.”
Beyond the current “warm friendship” the two nations already share, the core message from Sa’ar was a strong push for a formal and enduring alliance.
“Our goal is to build a long-term strategic partnership between Israel and India,” he stated.
The meeting between the two foreign ministers comes at a critical juncture in West Asian diplomacy, with the global community intensifying efforts to manage the complex humanitarian and security challenges in Gaza.