Prime Minister Narendra Modi today called on Israeli President Reuven Rivlin and discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties.

In a tweet, Mr Modi said the President of Israel welcomed him so warmly and broke the protocol. This is a mark of respect for the people of India, the Prime Minister said. Mr Modi, who arrived in Tel Aviv yesterday for a three-day visit, met Mr Rivlin at his residence in Jerusalem, and thanked him for the warm hospitality and friendship.

In the guest book at the President’s residence, Mr Modi wrote it is a privilege to meet President Rivlin again today. The PM said he fondly recall Mr Rivlin’s visit to India last November when he charmed us with his affable manner and desire to do more with India.

Prime Minister wrote President Rivlin is admired in India for his unstinting belief and common good of mankind and thanked him for his friendship and his warm hospitality.

The leader of opposition of Israel, Issac Herzog will also call upon the Prime Minister. Mr Modi will also address the Indian community in Tel Aviv later in the day.

Last night, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hosted a dinner in honour of Mr Modi at his residence. In a press statement along with Mr Netanyahu, Mr Modi said common objective of economic prosperity, strong technology and innovation provide the space for shared action between India and Israel. The Prime Minister said he wants to frame a relationship that transforms the landscape of economic engagements between the two countries.

Mr Modi said the two countries must resolutely oppose the evils of terrorism, radicalism and violence that plague our times. He said, those who believe in humanity and civilised values must come together and defend it at all costs.

Mr Netanyahu also asserted that the two countries must stand together to fight the menace of terrorism.

Our correspondent reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that technology and innovation were important development priority of India which provides the scope to expand academic, scientific and business links with Israel. He said that both the countries want to place a strong security partnership to safeguard peace, stability and prosperity. Mr Modi said that he will work with Netanyahu to build a clear action agenda to realise these objectives.

Speaking about the people to people linkages between the two countries Mr Modi said his visit to Israel celebrates the ancient bond between the communities across both the nations. Mr Modi added that Indian Jews are a living and vibrant connect to this shared history. He said, India is proud of Jewish sons and daughters of India.