Indian PM Narendra Modi and Israeli PM Binyamin Netanyahu
Indian PM Narendra Modi and Israeli PM Binyamin NetanyahuShlomi Cohen, Flash 90

Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday morning flew by helicopter from Jerusalem to Haifa.

During the helicopter ride, Prime Minister Netanyahu showed his Indian counterpart Israel's narrow waist and explained the geo-political reality to him.

In Haifa, the two leaders visited the British military cemetery in which Indian soldiers from World War I are buried. They laid flowers on the soldiers' memorial and unveiled a plaque in memory of the Indian soldiers who fell in the battle to liberate Haifa.

In the guestbook, Netanyahu wrote, "In memory of the brave soldiers of India who helped liberate our land. In deepest respect, Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of the State of Israel."

Modi's entry said, "I am deeply honored to stand here today to salute the valiant Indian soldiers, who laid down their lives for the liberation of Haifa in the First World War. The exceptional bravery and supreme sacrifice of Major Shakur Dayat Singh, the 'hero of Haifa', and his men will be remembered forever and continue to inspire generations to come. Next year, the century of the Battle of Haifa will present another opportunity to mark this enduring bond between India and Israel. Jai Hindi."

Afterwards, the two went to visit a mobile desalination plant.

On Wednesday, Israel and India signed a series of agreements, including on water conservation. Last year, Israel and India signed a desalination agreement.

Because of the drought in recent decades, Israel's economy relies heavily on desalination. With five plants around the country, Israel's desalination plants produce 582 million cubic meters annually.

Kobi Gideon (GPO)