External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar welcomed Director General Yaakov Blitshtein of Israel to Delhi on Thursday, marking a significant step in the ongoing India-Israel dialogue. The meeting highlighted the continued development of bilateral cooperation between the two nations and provided an opportunity to discuss the volatile situation in West Asia.
In his post on X, Jaishankar expressed satisfaction with the discussions, stating, "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."
The visit follows the 17th Round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Israel, which took place on Wednesday. During this session, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Director General Yaakov Blitshtein reviewed the breadth of their bilateral relations and explored the current issues affecting West Asia.
The Ministry of External Affairs reported that the discussions covered various aspects of the India-Israel Strategic Partnership. Both sides reviewed their extensive bilateral engagements and shared perspectives on the unfolding situation in West Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri underscored India's concern over the escalating tensions in West Asia. He emphasised the importance of restraint, dialogue, and diplomacy.
Additionally, he reiterated India's strong condemnation of the October 7 terror attacks on Israel, calling for the immediate release of all hostages and a ceasefire.
In addition to the political and diplomatic discussions, Director General Blitshtein paid homage to the victims of the 26/11 terror attack at Nirman House in Mumbai. He also inaugurated the Advanced Antimicrobial Emergency Room at JJ Hospital in Mumbai.
Speaking to the media, Blitshtein remarked on the hospital's long-standing history of providing care. He highlighted the significance of robust healthcare, especially given the challenging circumstances in Israel.
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