Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has concluded a productive three-day visit to Israel, holding a series of high-level engagements to strengthen the India–Israel strategic and economic partnership, an official statement said on Tuesday.
The visit reaffirmed the two nations’ strong commitment to expand trade, enhance technology-driven cooperation, and deepen collaboration across sectors of shared strategic importance. Officials said the trip marks a significant step forward in the next phase of the India–Israel relationship.
From November 20–22, Goyal met three senior Israeli ministers and also called on President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During discussions with Israel’s Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat, both sides advanced talks on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and signed the Terms of Reference — a key step toward structured negotiations aimed at a balanced and mutually beneficial outcome.
In his meeting with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Goyal focused on opportunities for Indian companies in infrastructure and mining sectors and also discussed employment prospects for Indian workers in Israel. Talks with Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter centred on Israel’s long-term food-security strategies, advancements in seed improvement, and best practices in agricultural water reuse.
Goyal participated in the India–Israel Business Forum and CEOs Forum, which witnessed strong participation from leading industries of both countries. More than 250 high-value B2B meetings were facilitated, paving the way for new trade and investment partnerships.
Highlighting India’s growing market and innovation landscape, he encouraged Israeli companies to explore partnerships in technology, agritech, water management, defence, fintech, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, pharmaceuticals, and space.
The minister also interacted with top Israeli companies — including Check Point, IDE Technologies, NTA, and Netafim — to explore collaborations in cybersecurity, desalination and wastewater management, urban mobility, and precision agriculture solutions.
Goyal visited the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation to learn about Israel’s globally recognised innovation ecosystem. He also experienced autonomous driving technology at Mobileye, and toured Kibbutz Ramat Rachel to observe community-led sustainable agriculture models.
Accompanied by a delegation of over 60 business leaders, Goyal engaged with the diamond industry and the vibrant Indian community in Israel. He also visited key historical and cultural landmarks, including the Israel Museum and the Indian Hospice.
In addition, he undertook insightful visits to Sheba Hospital for healthcare innovations and to agritech farms known for pioneering sustainable practices, underscoring India’s interest in leveraging Israeli expertise for shared development.
(IANS)