Israel’s Finance Minister Mr. Bezalel Smotrich, during his maiden visit to India, paid a courtesy call on Gujarat Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. The meeting reflected growing bilateral interest in trade, financial technology, and developmental collaboration between Israel and India, particularly with Gujarat as a focal point.
Focus on GIFT City and Financial Innovation
A significant highlight of the meeting was Mr. Smotrich’s keen interest in India’s flagship Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). Discussions centered on possible participation of Israeli financial institutions within the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). The Israeli Minister also showed strong interest in learning from India’s globally acclaimed Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and fintech ecosystem.
Modi’s Birthplace Inspires Strategic Connection
Mr. Smotrich noted that his visit to Gujarat was driven by both personal and professional motivations, including the desire to witness the birthplace of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi. He emphasized the cultural and technological parallels between Israel, India, and Gujarat and expressed hope for enhanced business-to-business cooperation in sectors such as agri-tech, fintech, and defense.
Shared Stance on Counterterrorism
Echoing strong diplomatic alignment, both sides reiterated their shared commitment to fighting terrorism. Mr. Smotrich acknowledged India’s consistent support for Israel on global platforms, and lauded Mr. Modi’s “zero tolerance” approach to terror. Mr. Patel assured continued cooperation and reaffirmed Gujarat’s support in matters of security, peace, and regional stability.
Collaboration in Agri-Tech and Water Management
Mr. Patel acknowledged Israel’s global leadership in drip irrigation and advanced water conservation technologies, suggesting scope for joint developmental projects in Gujarat’s rural and arid zones. This aligns with the state’s long-term vision for sustainable agriculture and efficient water resource management.
Proposal for Joint Task Force on Investment
To advance potential collaborations, Mr. Patel proposed the creation of a joint working group involving officials from both Gujarat and Israel. This team would examine sector-specific opportunities in fintech, financial services, infrastructure, and climate-resilient development under a structured framework.
Condolences and Praise for Resilience
Chief Minister Patel also extended condolences for the recent tragic loss of lives in Israel and praised the country’s resilience and determination in overcoming adversities.
Key Officials Present at the Meeting
The high-level meeting was attended by senior state officials including Mr. M. K. Das (Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister), Mr. T. Natarajan (Finance Department ACS), Ms. Avanthika Singh (Additional Principal Secretary), Ms. Arti Kanwar (Finance Secretary), and Dr. Vikrant Pandey (CM’s Secretary).
