PM Modi, Netanyahu hold talks on key issues

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday began delegation-level talks with the visiting Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu here.

During the parleys, according to official sources, both the leaders are expected to discuss host of issues, including defence cooperation, trade, innovation, counter terrorism, agriculture and water harvesting.

Several agreements and MoUs are expected to be signed.

Mr Netanyahu was given a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan earlier in the day. Along with his wife, the visiting dignitary also visited Raj Ghat and paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi.

Mr Netanyahu said his visit to New Delhi is the dawn of a new era in friendship between India and Israel.

"It began with PM Modi's historic visit to Israel that created tremendous enthusiasm, it continues with my visit here which I must say is deeply moving for me, my wife and people of Israel," he told reporters.

It is the first visit of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in last 15 years. Mr Modi had visited Israel in July last year.

On Tuesday, Mr Netanyahu will inaugurate the third edition of the annual Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.

During his stay in India, the Israeli Prime Minister will also visit Agra, Ahmedabad and Mumbai.