Copyright thehindubusinessline
Israel supports connectivity projects such as India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and I2U2 (India, Israel, US, UAE partnership) that promote regional linkages, said Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar. Indian businesses, too, are keen to explore opportunities, especially in sectors such as rail, road and port infrastructure, renewable energy and health in Israel, said External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in his opening remarks during his meeting with Sa’ar in New Delhi on Tuesday. “I believe the future for regional partnerships is bright. Israel supports regional connectivity projects such as I2U2 and IMEC. We want to promote connectivity between South Asia, West Asia and Europe,” said Sa’ar. The Israeli Foreign Minister is on a three-day official visit to India. big set back The IMEC initiative, which was announced during India’s G20 presidency in 2023 as a major connectivity project connecting Asia with Europe through West Asia, suffered a big set back due to the Israel-Gaza conflict. The Middle East crisis has also negatively impacted and slowed down the I2U2 grouping’s progress and joint projects due to UAE’s diplomatic sensitivities and slowing down of Israel’s engagement in the projects. The Israeli Minister’s visit allows both countries to review bilateral cooperation and assess the possibilities for further deepening it, said Jaishankar. “The recent conclusion of our Bilateral Investment Agreement is a notable step in that direction. It is noteworthy that your ministerial colleagues dealing with agriculture, economy, tourism and finance have all visited us recently,” he said. India and Israel have a history of cooperation in semiconductors and in cyber technologies, which has increased in relevance now, Jaishankar pointed out. “We are hosting the AI Impact Summit next year in February in India, and look forward very much to Israel’s presence,” he said. Gaza peace plan On the Gaza peace plan, Jaishankar said India has been following the developments closely. “We welcome the return of the hostages and the remains of those who unfortunately lost their lives. India supports the Gaza peace plan, and hopes that it paves the way for a durable and lasting solution,” he said. A three-phase Gaza peace plan, initiated by the US and regional mediators, is currently being implemented but is in a fragile state. Published on November 4, 2025
