India and Israel will finalize a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) during Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s visit. They will also start work on free trade agreement (FTA) talks to strengthen economic ties.

Smotrich’s Three-Day Visit

Smotrich will visit India from September 8 to 10. He will meet Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and Housing Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

He will also travel to Mumbai and GIFT City in Gandhinagar to explore business opportunities.

Sources said, “The aim of this visit is to deepen Israel’s economic and financial ties with India through bilateral meetings and prepare common ground for some of the key agreements, including bilateral investment treaty (BIT) and free trade agreement (FTA).”

Treaty Ready for Signing

Officials confirmed that BIT negotiations are complete. Therefore, both finance ministers will sign the treaty during the visit.

A source said, “Both countries have been negotiating a draft bilateral investment treaty (BIT) and have concluded the negotiations. The Finance Ministers are expected to sign the BIT during the visit.”

Investor Protection

The BIT will protect investors from both countries. It will ensure fair treatment and prevent discrimination.

It will also set up an arbitration forum to settle disputes independently. This step will boost investor confidence and create a safer business environment.

Moving Towards Free Trade

The BIT signing will strengthen economic cooperation. It will also clear the path for FTA negotiations, which could expand trade between the two nations.

Smotrich’s visit will mark a key moment in India-Israel relations, pushing them toward deeper financial and economic ties.