India, Israel Set to Sign Investment Treaty This Week
India and Israel are expected to sign a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) during the upcoming visit of Israel’s Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich, scheduled from September 8 to 10. The agreement is intended to protect investors from both countries through promises of fair treatment and independent arbitration.
Strategic Partnership and Trade Prospects
The BIT aligns with a broader strategy to deepen economic ties and lays the groundwork for a potential Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Smotrich will meet key Indian officials, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. His itinerary also includes visits to Mumbai and the GIFT City in Gujarat.
Investor Assurance and Next Steps
By guaranteeing minimum standards and non-discrimination, the treaty aims to boost investor confidence. Officials say negotiations for the BIT have already concluded and that signing during the visit is highly likely. While FTA talks will follow, the BIT marks a major step toward stronger economic cooperation between the two nations.
