The first round of negotiations for the India-Israel Free Trade Agreement (FTA) commenced yesterday in New Delhi and will continue till Thursday. During the opening session, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal underscored that the FTA negotiations had begun at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Israel, starting tomorrow. Mr Agrawal underscored the significant opportunities available to both sides in sectors such as innovation, science and technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, high-tech manufacturing, agriculture, and services. He emphasised that the FTA will enable both countries to harness and fully leverage these opportunities. Chief Negotiator of India, Ajay Bhadoo and the additional secretary of the Department of Commerce encouraged both sides to work on a balanced agreement to build a forward-looking framework for an evolving partnership.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry said that the engagement highlights the strategic importance of the India-Israel bilateral relationship and reinforces India’s commitment to strengthening economic partnerships in line with national priorities and global aspirations.
The Terms of Reference for the FTA were signed in November last year, establishing a structured framework for discussions on identified areas to enhance trade and economic cooperation.
