NEW DELHI: Union commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal’s recent three-day visit to Israel highlighted India’s growing role as a trusted and reliable partner on the global stage. Invited by Israel’s Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat, Goyal visited the country from November 20–22.“Today, India is emerging as a trusted friend and a reliable partner of the world,” Goyal told ANI, emphasizing that New Delhi’s engagement with countries worldwide is expanding across diplomatic, economic, and strategic areas.He pointed to India’s improving bilateral ties, saying, “Our relations with different countries are improving and growing,” and noted the progress in economic negotiations. “Many free trade agreements are being finalised,” he added, reflecting the increasing recognition of India’s economic potential globally.Focusing on India-Israel relations, Goyal said the proposed free trade agreement (FTA) may be implemented in two phases. “There is a possibility that we may finalise the first phase of the FTA first and finalise the entire FTA in two phases.” He stressed the mutual benefits of closer cooperation: “This shows that today, everyone is realising that there is a benefit for both countries in increasing relations with India.”The minister also described the momentum between the two countries: “In a way, both countries are currently busy cashing in on the low-hanging fruit,” signaling rapid progress in areas of immediate opportunity.Discussions with Israeli ministers focused on technology and innovation, particularly in agriculture. Goyal observed, “Israel has done a lot in areas like drip irrigation and agricultural innovation despite limited land, limited funds, and limited water,” adding that these lessons could help drive growth in both nations.He further highlighted developments in trade frameworks, referencing conversations with Israel’s finance minister. “He expressed satisfaction that the bilateral investment treaty has now been executed between the two countries, and I believe this marks the beginning of a new era of trade relations,” Goyal said.Reflecting on the visit, Goyal described it as “very successful,” noting strong interest from both the Israeli government and industry in expanding engagement with India. He explained that the trip set the stage for structured trade negotiations: “It was a very successful three-day visit to Israel. There is a great deal of enthusiasm in the industry and the government to further strengthen relations with India. As a result, we finalised and signed the Terms of Reference, which will now begin negotiations for a free trade agreement.”
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