PM Modi conferred with Israel's 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal'

Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday  has been conferred with the 'Speaker of the Knesset Medal', the highest honour awarded by Israel's Parliament, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to strengthening strategic relations between India and Israel.

PM Modi is a rare world leader who has received top awards from both Israel and Palestine.

Where did PM Modi receive this honour? 

The medal was conferred by Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana in recognition of PM Modi’s exceptional contribution through his personal leadership to strengthen strategic relations between India and Israel.

PM Modi is the first leader to receive this medal.

It recognises PM Modi's role in elevating India-Israel ties into a strategic partnership spanning defence, security, technology, innovation and people-to-people exchanges.

What about Highest Palestinian honour?

In 2018, PM Modi was awarded the Grand Collar of the State of Palestine, which is the highest Palestinian honour for foreign leaders, by President Mahmoud Abbas.

The award recognised PM Modi's contribution to strengthening India–Palestine relations and New Delhi's long-standing support for the Palestinian cause.

What did PM Modi say in the speech?

During his speech to the Israeli Parliament, PM Modi said that 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.

Did PM Modi support Gaza peace effort?

PM Modi also expressed support for the Gaza peace initiative, saying it held a promise for "durable peace in the region". 

"India supports all efforts that contribute to durable peace and regional stability, he said.

"The Gaza Peace Initiative that was endorsed by the UN Security Council offers a pathway. India has expressed its firm support for the initiative," PM Modi said.

"We believe that it holds the promise of a just and durable peace for all the people of the region, including by addressing the Palestine issue," he said.

PM Modi informed the Knesset that the Indian Parliament has set up a Parliamentary Friendship Group for Israel. 

"I invite you all to visit India and look forward to having more exchanges between our Members of Parliament," he added.

What happen after speech?

During his speech in Knesset, PM Modi received a standing ovation, with chants of “Modi, Modi” echoing in the chamber.

PM Modi also interacted with members of the Israeli parliament. The MPs took selfies and photographs with PM Modi.