Narendra Modi becomes the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel when he arrives on Tuesday, the result of growing ties that have led to billions of dollars in defence deals. Israel, in constant search of allies to vote in its favour at UN bodies as well as business partners, has been portraying the visit as historic. Israeli analysts have also noted Modi is not scheduled to travel to Ramallah to meet with Palestinian leaders during his three-day stay, as is common for many foreign dignitaries.
Modi did however meet Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas in New Delhi in May. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the visit, which marks 25 years since the two countries established diplomatic relations, a "further expression of the state of Israel's military, economic and diplomatic strength."
"This is a very significant step in strengthening relations between the two countries," the Israeli leader said. "India is a huge country with over 1.25 billion people and is one of the world's largest, growing economies. Ties between Israel and India are on a constant upswing." Netanyahu said Monday that, in an unusual move and a sign of the importance Israel is placing on the trip, he would "accompany the prime minister at many events during his visit as befits the leader of the largest democracy in the world."