Israel Economy Minister Nir Barkat emphasized the strong bond between India and Israel, built on shared values, government-to-government diplomacy, and people-to-people connections. Speaking at the 29th Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Partnership Summit in Delhi, Barkat highlighted the importance of expanding trade and business partnerships between the two nations.

"Ties between India and Israel are built on shared values, complemented by a strong government-to-government diplomatic foundation and friendship, as well as people-to-people friendship and respect," Barkat stated. "We're living in an era of uncertainty and instability across the globe. Israel can attest to this more than most. Since our independence in 1948, Israel has faced wars and terror, with the ultimate goal of our enemies being to eliminate Israel from existence."

Barkat went on to describe the recent attack on Israel by Iran and its proxies on October 7, 2023. He detailed the atrocities committed against Jews, comparing them to the horrors of the Holocaust, and the ongoing detention of 101 hostages in Gaza under inhumane conditions.

Despite these challenges, Barkat expressed Israel's unwavering commitment to strengthening its partnership with India. "Israel knows how to partner with global partners, countries that share our values and interests. So Israel is focused on expanding trade and business partnerships," he said. "Our overarching goal is to increase our exports from USD 160 billion today to a trillion dollars within the next 15 to 20 years."

Barkat also showcased Israel's technological prowess, emphasizing its leadership in cybersecurity, desert technology, and climate change solutions. "Israel's exceptional cybersecurity companies hold 25% of all global cyber business," he explained. "We are also global leaders in desert tech and climate change tech, leading in wastewater treatment and drip irrigation. We offer wide-ranging solutions for deserts and drought-stricken regions."

The summit brought together representatives from 61 countries, including Bahrain, Nepal, and the host country India. Other speakers included Bahrain Commerce Minister Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro and Nepal Industry Minister Damodar Bhandari. They all emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership in a globalized world.

Fakhro highlighted Bahrain's strategic location as a bridge between East and West, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between India, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond. He stressed that "no nation can thrive in isolation" and emphasized Bahrain's commitment to fostering partnerships that promote sustainable and inclusive growth.

Bhandari extended an invitation to businesses and investors worldwide to explore the potential sectors of Nepal, emphasizing its strong historical relationship with India and its status as a major trading partner. He urged global collaboration to achieve shared goals of economic growth, prosperity, and inclusive development.

The 29th CII Partnership Summit serves as a platform for fostering productive partnerships and global cooperation, aiming to create a shared vision for a sustainable and prosperous future.