A new platform aimed at fostering connections between India and Israel is set to launch in Jerusalem on Thursday. Named the India x Israel Nexus, this initiative hopes to strengthen relationships between people from both countries as their ties continue to grow.
The aim of the India x Israel Nexus is to bring together leaders, policymakers, businesses, and cultural figures to enhance cooperation between Israel and India. Paushali Lassa, a geopolitical consultant and member of the Israel-India Friendship Club, emphasized the importance of personal connections in building strong relationships between nations. She pointed out that just as the U.S. and Israel share a long history of people-to-people ties, a similar bond needs to be fostered between Israel and India.
This initiative is privately funded but has the support of Israel’s Foreign Ministry and aims to boost engagement in business, policy, culture, and community between the two nations. Joyston D’Mello, one of the founders of the India x Israel Nexus, stated that solid relationships are formed not just in meetings or offices but when individuals trust one another and open doors to new opportunities.
The strategic partnership between India and Israel is growing, particularly in areas like defense, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and agriculture. India is Israel’s largest defense export customer, making up about one-third of its arms exports, while also providing military parts to Israel.
Historically, India maintained a cautious distance from Israel to balance relationships with Arab countries. However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strengthened ties with Israel, making this partnership a key aspect of India’s security and technology strategies.
Revital Moses, another co-founder of the initiative, highlighted that defense technology and agricultural advancements have been the foundation of India-Israel relations. She believes that cultural connections and soft power will be essential for the future of this partnership.
