External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar welcomed Director General Yaakov Blitshtein of Israel to Delhi on Thursday. The meeting comes at a critical time as tensions continue to escalate in West Asia, prompting both nations to exchange views on the evolving situation.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), EAM Jaishankar wrote, “Pleased to receive Director General Yaakov Blitshtein of Israel today in Delhi. Noted the continued development of India-Israel cooperation. Exchanged views on the ongoing situation in West Asia.”
Pleased to receive Director General Yaakov Blitshtein of Israel today in Delhi.
Noted the continued development of 🇮🇳 🇮🇱 cooperation. Exchanged views on the ongoing situation in West Asia. pic.twitter.com/7qy5bHleIJ
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 29, 2024
This high-level engagement followed the 17th Round of Foreign Office Consultations held on Wednesday, where India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Yaakov Blitshtein to discuss a wide range of bilateral and regional issues.
The consultations highlighted the robust nature of the India-Israel Strategic Partnership, with both sides conducting an in-depth review of their bilateral initiatives and addressing key global challenges.
During the consultations, India expressed its concerns over the escalating violence in West Asia, emphasizing the importance of restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy. The Indian delegation, led by Foreign Secretary Misri, reiterated India’s strong condemnation of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel. The Indian side also called for the immediate release of all hostages and urged for a ceasefire to prevent further escalation.
The discussions also touched upon broader strategic issues, including the Indo-Pacific region, where both countries have mutual interests in ensuring peace and stability.
