No justification for acts of terror on any soil: Modi, Netanyahu in joint statement

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu have said that there could be no justification for acts of terror on any soil.

Recognising the grave threat that terrorism poses to peace and security, both Prime Ministers, in the joint statement issued on Monday, have advocated that strong measures be taken against terrorists, terror organisations and those who sponsor, encourage or finance terrorism or provide sanctuary to terrorists and terror groups.

In line with this, the premiers have reiterated the importance of building comprehensive cooperation in counter-terrorism, including cyber-space and welcomed the signing of the MoU on Cooperation in Cyber Security between the two countries.

Both prime ministers have noted the readiness of Israeli companies to enter into joint ventures with Indian companies in the defence sector under the Make in India initiative.

The two have also agreed to hold each other's festivals in their respective countries in 2019 as a further step to solidify friendship between the peoples of India and Israel.

On the business ties front, Modi and Netanyahu have agreed that renewed efforts were required to realise the full potential for bilateral trade and investment, and took note of the next round of discussions between the two sides to be held in February 2018 in Israel.

Earlier on Monday, Prime Minister Modi and Netanyahu held delegation-level talks and discussed the ever-growing cooperation in all aspects of the bilateral relationship between the two sides.

Netanyahu, who is on a six-day visit to India, received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhawan on Monday.

Netanyahu will be visiting Agra, Gujarat and Mumbai and will be accompanied by the Indian Prime Minister on extensive portions of his visit.