Israeli Leaders Celebrate India's Independence, Highlighting Strong Ties

Jerusalem, Aug 15 (PTI) — Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended warm wishes on India's Independence Day, emphasizing the strengthening of ties and expressing optimism for the future of the Israel-India relationship.

President Herzog conveyed his “heartfelt greetings” to India’s President Droupadi Murmu and the people of India via his post on X, highlighting the deep bond between the two nations during challenging times. He expressed hope for the flourishing relationship and the safe return of hostages in conflict areas.

Prime Minister Netanyahu congratulated India and called his counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a “dear friend.” He remarked that India and Israel, as proud democracies, share a rich history and innovative spirit that fortifies their partnership. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the best aspects of the partnership are yet to come.

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, who marked history by visiting India in 2023, also extended his greetings through a Hindi post on X, addressing Indian Speaker Om Birla and the Indian populace.

India’s Ambassador to Israel, JP Singh, led the Independence Day ceremony on Friday by hoisting the tricolor. The event, attended by around 350 people from the Indian community, highlighted efforts to strengthen the strategic relationship between the two nations.

Ambassador Singh noted the presence of approximately 40,000 Indians residing in Israel and mentioned the appreciation for Indian workers and caregivers, who contribute significantly to various sectors addressing workforce shortages. Singh expressed gratitude toward the Indian Jewish community, recognizing them as a crucial link between the two nations.

Members of the Indian community and Jews of Indian origin traveled across Israel to celebrate the occasion. In Beersheba, many gathered at the Cricket Club, enduring the heatwave, to mark India’s Independence Day.

Naor Gudker, Chairman of the Beersheba Cricket Club, shared his sentiments, stating, “We have lived in Israel since our childhood but have not forgotten our Indian roots. We still uphold the cultural values and remember India as a unique land where Jews faced no anti-semitism. Our pride in Indian origins remains strong.”