NewsGate Press Network

By Vineet Dikshit

Israel has defended its decision to engage Adani Group of Industries for development of strategic port of Haifa.

Tel Aviv’s ambassador in New Delhi  – Naor Gilon said his country’s handing over of the strategic port of Haifa to the Adani Group is a reflection of the trust that it has on India.
“It was a very important move from our point of view because Haifa Port is our strategic asset, ” Gilon told media persons on Wednesday the 22nd of February 2023 while addressing a press conference.

The envoy said Adani group was looking to  invest in more projects in Israel, adding that he hopes for success in the conglomerate’s ventures in his country

.”We have about 80 joint ventures with Indian companies, including TATA, Kalyani, BHEL… ports are the core business of Adani group,” he added.
On the matter of Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Gilon said both India and Israel are keen on finalising the proposed free trade pact as it could further boost overall bilateral trade ties.

The Israeli ambassador also endorsed that India is on course to becoming a global superpower from a regional superpower.
“We want our friends to remain close to us. We feel very comfortable with India. As I said before, Indian-controlled ports in Israel is something that we’re welcoming,” he added.
It may be recalled that the Adani Group has acquired the strategic Israeli port of Haifa for USD 1.2 billion.