The Times of India brings news of yet another step in deepening the alliance between Israel and India. Born of common interest in fighting Islamofascist terror, the relationship extends to multiple activities in technology, military affairs, cultural exchange, and people—to—people contact. Here in the United States, the Indian and Jewish ethnic communities of are increasingly realizing their common interests and values, and associating together.

An Israeli security team will soon visit India to train the security forces and intelligence teams for anti—insurgency operations in Kashmir . The deal will also include an agreement on intelligence sharing between the two countries.

To work out the nitty—gritty of this exchange programme, director, Intelligence Bureau, K P Singh, is in Tel Aviv now. He is scheduled to hold meetings with the Israeli authorities including their super spy, Mossad director, Meir Dagan, sources said.

India had shunned contact with Israel during the Cold War era. The taboo was, however, breached by the Narasimha Rao government and the ties have since soared, especially during the tenure of the NDA government which has strengthened the ties, brushing aside fears that this could alienate Islamic countries.

The highmark of the feature is a fast—growing partnership in the field of security with New Delhi keen to benefit from Israel 's experience in counter—terrorism, as well as procure high—tech weaponry being developed by Israeli concerns.

India's political and strategic realignment also includes increasingly warm and deep relations with the United States. Amidst all the controversy over outsourcing, Americans should realize what an important friend India has become.

Posted by Thomas  03 12 04