New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu over a phone call on Wednesday discussed ways to strengthen the multifaceted bilateral friendship, and deepen the cooperation in defence and security.

The call lasted for around 20 minutes.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Modi said: “Spoke with PM @netanyahu and discussed ways to strengthen the multifaceted India-Israel friendship, deepen our focus on innovation partnership, and our ongoing cooperation in defence and security.”

The office of the Israeli PM said: “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke this afternoon with Indian Prime Minister @narendramodi; the call lasted approximately 20 minutes.

“The two leaders discussed ways to strengthen the close and important relations between Israel and India."

“Prime Minister Netanyahu and @PMOIndia Modi expressed the mutual desire to deepen bilateral cooperation in high-tech, economic matters and security.”

PM Netanyahu in a tweet said: “Just spoke with Indian PM @narendramodi about ways to strengthen the close relationship between #Israel & #India. Together we'll advance security & economic relations, with a focus on high-tech. Exciting times ahead.”