Modi Starts His Three-Day Israel Visit

New Delhi, July 4 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday started his journey for his three-day trip to Israel. He is the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Israel and will discuss with the Prime Minister of Israel many issues including common challenges like terrorism and ways to boost economic ties.

"PM Narendra Modi emplanes for a historic visit to Israel, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister," the Prime Minister's Office tweeted.

Netanyahu will himself receive Modi when he arrives at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport. Mr. Modi will receive this special gesture in line with US Presidents and the Pope.

In Israel, Modi will also meet President Reuven Ruvi Rivlin apart from paying his respects to courageous Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the liberation of Haifa in 1918. The visit coincides with India and Israel marking 25 years of their diplomatic relations.

Modi will be in Israel till July 6 before travelling to Hamburg, Germany, to attend the G-20 summit.