Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his gratitude after receiving the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal”, calling it a tribute to the enduring friendship between India and Israel rather than to an individual.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Knesset. I accept it with humility and gratitude.”
“This honour is not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations,” the post read.
The Israeli Parliament on Wednesday conferred the “Speaker of the Knesset Medal” on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is the highest honour of the Knesset.
The award was conferred in recognition of PM Modi’s “exceptional contribution through his personal leadership” to strengthen strategic relations between India and Israel.
The medal was conferred after PM Modi’s speech in the Israeli Parliament.
After his speech, PM Modi interacted with members of the Israeli parliament, the Knesset. The MPs took selfies and photographs with PM Modi.
PM Modi received a standing ovation during his speech, which was also marked by rapturous applause.
In his speech, PM Modi said there is great admiration for Israel’s resolve, courage, and achievements in India.
“Long before we related to each other as modern States, we were linked by ties that go back more than two thousand years. The Book of Esther refers to India as Hodu. The Talmud records trade with India in ancient times,” he said.
“Jewish merchants travelled across sea routes that connected the Mediterranean with the Indian Ocean. They came seeking opportunity and dignity. And, in India, they became one of us. Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. That record is a source of pride for us,” he added.
PM Modi said that at the heart of the India-Israel partnership are the ties between our peoples.
“When I first visited Israel in 2006, there were a handful of Yoga centres in Israel. Today, Yoga seems to be practiced in almost every neighbourhood. I am told that interest in Ayurveda is also growing in Israel. I invite more and more young Israelis to travel to India. They will witness the dynamism of our society, and experience what holistic wellness can do for the body and the mind,” he said.
He said the Indian Parliament has set up a Parliamentary Friendship Group for Israel.
(ANI)
