President Pranab Mukherjee and Israeli President Reuven Rivlin during a meeting.
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Mr Mukherjee, the first Indian President to visit Israel, made a reference to the current violence in the region which has resulted in heavy Palestinian and Israeli casualties, during remarks he made at the Israeli presidency where he was accorded a ceremonial reception by his Israeli counterpart, Mr Reuven Rivlin. “We will also take this opportunity to discuss the many global challenges that are two countries face today, including the growing menace of terrorism and extremism, our common concerns about climate change, and the urgent need for reform of global governance infrastructure”, he added. “I greatly look forward to my discussions with His Excellency the President of Israel, and other political leaders”, said Mukherjee. We have always advocated a peaceful resolution of all disputes. He mentioned the help extended by India for rescuing Israeli trekkers during Nepal natural disaster.
President had been subjected to criticism by the Israeli media for not speaking against Palestinian “terrorism” in his speeches in Palestine.
Mukherjee arrived in Israel earlier this week after visiting Jordan and the Palestinian Territories. Mukherjee also addressed the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, during which he expressed gratitude towards Israel for supporting “India’s rightful claim to a permanent seat in the UN Security Council”.
“Netanyahu not only has made trouble for Israeli citizens, but also has harmed Israel’s reputation by his actions in the world”, Herzog said.
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Mukherjee laid a wreath at a memorial for soldiers and the two sides signed agreements on a cultural exchange programme and double taxation.
