Tel Aviv values relations with India: Israeli minister

Israel's visiting Agriculture Minister Uri Ariel on Monday said his country attached utmost importance to strengthening cooperation with India.

"I carry this message on behalf of Israel and its people to the government and people of India, a message of friendship and partnership, a message of commitment to furthering our continued cooperation for the well-being of both nations," Ariel said after the inauguration of 'India Water Week 2016' here.

Ariel, currently on an official visit to India to enhance cooperation between the two nations, assured that the Israel government and its business sector of water and agro technologies will be reliable partners to India in its struggle for sufficient water supply and food security.

Israel, the partner-country of India Water Week, will organise dedicated seminars and lectures by leading Israeli experts in the fields of water and agriculture.

Israel will also organise three exclusive sessions on 'More Crop Per Drop - Adoption of Precise Irrigation Technologies', 'Creating Awareness for Water Conservation in Younger Generation' and 'Israel Makes in India'.

Speaking after inauguration of the Israeli pavilion at India Water Week, Israel's Ambassador to India Daniel Carmon said after defence and agriculture, water would be the next big collaboration between the two countries.

"We'll make every effort to justify the trust the Indian government and people have reposed in Israel, its capabilities and experience. We're here to share our knowledge and experience with India. The four dominant elements of our water partnership - close friendship, mutual challenges, common interests and shared values - are fully represented at the India Water Week here," he added.