Modi visit

With regard to “Namaste, Modi” (July 4), having worked at the Consulate General of Israel in Mumbai for 45 years, it is very heartening to learn about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Israel, which makes me reminisce.

I’m talking about the early 1960s, when, apart from the basic courtesies extended to the consulate, there was no contact with the government in New Delhi whatsoever. So when in 1992, full diplomatic relations were established, it was a goal fulfilled.

When I worked there, every consul-general had only one agenda – to forge closer relations. It became our (the Indian staff’s) goal, too, and we worked ardently toward that. Being sort of ostracized, it was a very difficult task indeed.

I remember how the Israeli diplomatic staff looked forward anxiously to receiving copies of The Jerusalem Post every week in the diplomatic pouch, especially during times of war. We went through it all with them, sharing their joys and sorrows and anxieties. The Post also became the source of information for people of India by way of “News from Israel,” published fortnightly by the consulate and distributed throughout the country.

We have, of course, come a long way since then, and things could not be better between India and Israel. So at the risk of repeating myself, it was a great achievement to have the Israeli flag flying in New Delhi, and a sense of fulfillment at having played even a minuscule role in this endeavor.

I take this opportunity to salute the honorable prime ministers of both Israel and India on this momentous occasion. ROSHNI SINOR

Mumbai

First, please convey my heartfelt thanks to your honorable prime minister for giving a very warm and grand welcome to our prime minister. What a great and noble gesture from a country that has suffered from terrorism more than most other nations. RAGHUNATHAN RAMAN

Chennai, India

Your editorial “Welcome, PM Modi” (July 4) was a beautiful, learned expose on many recent years of Indian and Israel relations that should be made compulsory topics taught in all Israeli high schools. The Indian marketplace is open for our expanding hi-tech economy and there are not many places in the world that speak English, have an unlimited capacity to grow and are not indoctrinated with a hatred for our culture.

The adjoining opinion pieces by Caroline B. Glick (“Modi and Israel’s coming of age,” Our World) and Isi Leibler (“A memoir – background to Indian PM’s visit,” Candidly Speaking) make this page one to save for my grandchildren when they visit. LENNY WOLMAN

Jerusalem