The Jerusalem Municipality lit up the Chords Bridge—one of the capital’s most prominent landmarks—with the flags of Israel and India side by side Saturday night. The ceremonial gesture marked 79 years of Indian independence, as a sign of friendship and appreciation for the strategic and warm relationship between the two countries.
1+Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion said the city is proud to join India’s celebrations, calling the country an ally and important partner of the State of Israel. Lion added that the close ties, reflected in the relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, rest on shared values and deep friendship that continues to strengthen over the years. “On behalf of Jerusalem and its residents, I wish India a happy Independence Day, and look forward to continued strengthening of the strong bond between our nations and peoples for many years to come,” the mayor said. The relationship between Israel and India is defined as a comprehensive strategic partnership that has strengthened significantly in recent years and is characterized by deep, multidimensional cooperation. India is one of the major purchasers of Israeli weapons and defense technology, while Israel views India as a vital political and economic anchor in Asia.
1+Beyond the security and intelligence axis, ties between the countries include large-scale projects in agriculture and water, partnerships in technology and cyber, and involvement in regional geopolitical initiatives such as the I2U2 forum and the IMEC trade corridor, which connects India to Europe through the Port of Haifa.