PM Modi visits Yad Vashem Memorial in Israel, pays tribute to holocaust victims

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid his respects at Yad Vashem, Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust, during his visit to Jerusalem.Standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the Hall of Remembrance, the two leaders observed silence as the Kaddish prayer was recited in memory of the six million Jews killed during World War II. The ceremony centred on respect, remembrance and hope for peace and humanity.Established in 1953, Yad Vashem preserves the memory of Holocaust victims through its Holocaust History Museum, Hall of Names and Children’s Memorial.It also honours the "Righteous Among the Nations," non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews and promotes education and research to ensure that the stories of victims and survivors are never forgotten.Earlier in the visit, PM Modi also toured an exhibition in Jerusalem showcasing Israel’s advancements in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, healthcare and other sectors. He urged Israeli companies to invest in India and collaborate with local talent.A day earlier, the Israeli Parliament conferred the "Speaker of the Knesset Medal" its highest honour on PM Modi. The award was presented after his address to the Knesset in recognition of his "exceptional contribution through his personal leadership" in strengthening strategic ties between India and Israel.Following his speech, Modi interacted with members of the Knesset, with several MPs taking selfies and photographs with him. He received a standing ovation and sustained applause during his address.In his speech, PM Modi highlighted the deep historical links between India and Israel."Long before we related to each other as modern States, we were linked by ties that go back more than two thousand years. The Book of Esther refers to India as Hodu. The Talmud records trade with India in ancient times," he said."Jewish merchants travelled across sea routes that connected the Mediterranean with the Indian Ocean. They came seeking opportunity and dignity. And, in India, they became one of us. Jewish communities have lived in India without fear of persecution or discrimination. They have preserved their faith and participated fully in society. That record is a source of pride for us," he added.