Jerusalem: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-day official visit to Israel, will hold bilateral talks with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, with several key agreements, including in defence cooperation, expected to be signed.

Modi was received at the Ben Gurion Airport by Netanyahu, who personally welcomed him. The Prime Minister was accorded a ceremonial reception with military honours and a red carpet welcome.

This is Modi's first visit to Israel in nine years, his previous visit having taken place in July 2017. Officials said the visit reflects the strengthening strategic partnership between the two countries.

In a social media post, Modi said he was pleased to return to Israel and thanked Netanyahu for the warm reception. He said discussions covered cooperation in key areas such as science and technology, water management, agriculture, skill development, defence, and trade.

Netanyahu said their meeting would focus on enhancing economic, defence, and diplomatic ties, and confirmed that several agreements were expected to be finalised.

Defence cooperation is expected to be a key focus area, with discussions likely on strengthening India's air defence and military capabilities.

Modi is also scheduled to meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog during the visit.

Officials said the visit assumes significance amid evolving regional developments and is expected to further deepen the strategic partnership between India and Israel.