Why in news?
India and Israel elevated their ties to the “strategic partnership” and signed seven pacts.
What are the MoUs signed?
- India and Israel signed 7 agreements to step-up cooperation in key sectors like space, agriculture and water conservation.
- Science - They agreed to set up a $40 million India-Israel Industrial R&D & Technical Innovation Fund, with both countries contributing $20 million each.
- They also agreed for cooperation between the ISRO and the Israel Space Agency (ISA) regarding cooperation in atomic clocks.
- Besides, separate MoUs were signed between ISRO and ISA for cooperation in GEO-LEO optical link, and in electric propulsion for small satellites
- Water - They signed a pact on National Campaign for Water Conservation in India.
- Another pact was signed on state water utility reform in India
- Farm sector - The two countries have agreed upon a three-year work programme in agriculture from 2018 to 2020.
- They vowed to do more together to combat growing radicalisation and terrorism.
- The issue of terror and “strategic threats” was higlighted.
- A joint statement called for strong measures against terrorists, terror organisations, their networks and all those who encourage, support and finance terrorism, or provide sanctuary to terrorists and terror groups.
- Both leaders also committed to cooperate for the early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.
Source: Business Standard
