PM Modi concludes historic Israel visit, departs for Hamburg
PM Modi bid farewell to Israel after wrapping up an eventful three-day visit. Modi was seen off by Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, who once again broke protocol in doing so. Netanyahu also gifted Modi an autographed picture of their stroll at the Olga beach. Modi soon arrived in Hamburg, Germany to attend the G20 summit to be held during 7-8 July. Let's know more!
Modi's Israel visit
Modi was on a three-day official visit to Israel during July 4-6, becoming the first Indian PM to do so. PMs Modi and Netanyahu pledged to work together on common areas including terrorism after discussions at various levels. The two sides inked seven MoUs across areas including agriculture and water and raised the level of bilateral engagement to a strategic partnership.
Modi strikes all the right chords
PM Modi promised Overseas Citizen of India cards and a Mumbai-Tel Aviv flight to attract Indian-origin Israelis and enhance India-Israel cultural connectivity. Modi also interacted with Moshe Holtzman, a 26/11 survivor. A chrysanthemum flower at the Danziger flower farm was named 'Modi' after his visit.
PM Modi launches the India-Israel CEO forum
The forum aims to increase bilateral trade from $4.13 billion to $20 billion in five years. Speaking at the launch of the forum, Modi highlighted key Indian economic reforms including GST and invited Israeli firms to be part of the Start up India initiative. Six committees covering areas including homeland security and life sciences were also set up under the forum.
Off to Hamburg!
PM Modi will now attend the 12th G20 summit alongside leaders of major world economies. The theme for this year's summit is 'Shaping an Inter- connected World'. Along with usual topics of discussion surrounding economics, the current summit may also focus on environmental sustainability in the backdrop of Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, along with gender inclusiveness and counter terrorism.
