India, Israel face common challenge in fighting terrorism and radicalism: Israeli President Reuven Rivlin

India is a "top trading partner", Israeli President Reuven Rivlin said on Thursday, expressing hope that his visit here will pave the way for free trade pact (FTA) that will foster economic growth in both the nations.

Delhi: Israeli President Reuven Rivlin said on Thursday that India and Israel faced a common challenge in fighting terrorism and radicalism. 

Speaking at 'India-Israel 25 years of partnership' event, he said, "Have come to reaffirm commitment to our (India and Israel) shared future in different areas like technology and education."

"We (India and Israel) also face a common challenge in fighting terrorism and radicalism," he added.

Rivlin further said, "Next year we will be marking 25th anniversary of our partnership with India, hope this visit will take us a step forward. I am really inspired by India's great development and booming economy."

We already cooperated in areas of economy, technology and security and this cooperation continues to grow," Rivlin said, as per ANI.

"I am here to affirm our support to fight against global terrorism," Israeli President maintained.

At the same time, he expressed hope that his visit to India would pave the way for free trade pact (FTA) that will foster economic growth in both the nations.

Rivlin's assertion could provide fresh momentum to the conclusion of the FTA, which has remained elusive despite negotiations having begun more than six years ago.

The First round of negotiation was held here on 26 May, 2010.

Pointing out that India has become the top global destination for foreign direct investment post the launch of the 'Make in India' campaign in September 2014, Rivlin said, "We have come here today to send a strong message. We are here to make in India, to make with India," as per PTI.

Rivlin observed that over the past two years, trade relations between Israel and India have boomed thanks to Narendra Modi government.

Outlining the areas for bilateral cooperation, Rivlin said India can leverage Israel's expertise in water management through technological solutions and "greatly benefit" from it.

(With Agency inputs)