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Chicago Celebrates India-Israel Friendship Day
Since India and Israel established formal diplomatic ties in 1992, their relationship has grown from a cautious start to a strong strategic partnership.
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Avatans Kumar - Mon, 27, Jul 2026
- 03:57 EDT
- 22
India Israel flags / AI Generated
The Global India Diaspora Foundation (GIDF) hosted the first India-Israel Friendship Day in Chicago at the Jewish Reconstructionist Synagogue in Evanston, IL.
Rakesh Malhotra from the GIF welcomed everyone. Guests included K.D. Thokchom, Deputy Consul General of India in Chicago; Elad Strohmayer, Consul General of Israel in Chicago; Delphine Gamburg, Deputy Consul General of Israel in Chicago; local officials; and members of the Indian and Israeli communities.
Since India and Israel established formal diplomatic ties in 1992, their relationship has grown from a cautious start to a strong strategic partnership.
Hindu and Jewish communities are among the world’s oldest faiths. Both are non-proselytizing and have strong intellectual traditions. The Indian and Israeli diasporas in the US are also known for their entrepreneurship and success.
Cultural ties between India and Israel are supported by India’s historic Jewish communities, like the Bene Israel, Cochin Jews, and Baghdadi Jews, who have lived in India for centuries without much persecution. This shared history is a point of pride, along with growing exchanges in tourism— India is among the top backpacking destinations for Israelis— yoga, and education.
India and Israel cooperate on defense and security. Israel is a key supplier of military equipment and technology to India, and both countries cooperate on regional security. They also partner in agriculture and water management, using Israeli methods such as drip irrigation across several Indian states. Trade and innovation have grown too, especially in cybersecurity, agricultural tech, and startups.
The event included Indian and Israeli dance performances and Indian food. Consul General Strohmayer said he hopes to make this an annual tradition.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
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