New Delhi. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had a telephonic conversation with his Israeli counterpart Lt Gen Benjamin Gantz on July 24. Both the Ministers expressed satisfaction at the progress of strategic cooperation between the two countries and discussed possibilities of further strengthening the defence engagements.

They also expressed satisfaction at the ongoing collaboration in research and development in fighting pandemic COVID-19 which will not only benefit the two countries but also aid the larger humanitarian cause.

The Defence Minister invited greater participation of Israeli defence companies under new liberalised foreign direct investment (FDI) regime in defence manufacturing. The two Ministers exchanged views on regional developments as well.

Defence Minister of Israel also responded positively to the invitation of Rajnath Singh to visit India at the earliest possible date.