Benjamin Netanyahu: Israel is at the 'Center' of an Unprecedented Project Connecting Asia to Europe

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, welcomed a new historic agreement on Saturday, September 9, that connects Asia's economic infrastructure to Europe, emphasizing that Israel is at the 'center of this unprecedented international project.' The Israeli Prime Minister stated in a series of messages on the social media platform X that this plan has far-reaching implications and will transform not only the Middle East and Israel but also the 'global landscape.' This 'G20 international project' starts in India and reaches Europe by passing through the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel. Netanyahu also welcomed the joint statement from the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the European Union, France, Italy, and Germany, which unveiled this plan, stating that his country will serve as a 'central connection point' in this initiative, with its railways and ports acting as 'important gateways' for connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe. The Israeli Prime Minister also thanked Joe Biden, the President of the United States, and his administration for their efforts in realizing this 'historic opportunity.' He noted Israel's 'commitment' to participate in facilitating the 'largest international cooperation project,' stating that all Israeli government ministries will cooperate under the coordination and oversight of the National Security Council to achieve this vision. The project includes the construction of railways, the establishment of a hydrogen pipeline, the installation of fiber optic communication cables, power cables, and other infrastructure developments. The President of the United States announced on Saturday, September 9, the agreement between the United States and several countries to create a trade communication route between India and the Middle East and Europe through railways and shipping lines. Joe Biden, speaking at the G20 summit in New Delhi, India’s capital, stated that the agreement reached in New Delhi will lead to a more stable, prosperous, and integrated Middle East. According to the Associated Press, this plan will be implemented with the aim of 'strengthening economic growth and political cooperation' among the participating countries. Biden considered this agreement very important, stating that if implemented, this plan will help 'strengthen trade, secure energy resources, and improve digital connectivity.' Jake Sullivan, the U.S. National Security Advisor, also mentioned that the railway connection plan will include India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and the European Union. Mr. Sullivan described this communication route as 'reflective of President Biden's vision for extensive investments' that 'arises from effective U.S. leadership and a willingness to embrace other countries as partners.' He stated that these 'infrastructures will boost economic growth and help bring Middle Eastern countries together.' The U.S. National Security Advisor noted that with the implementation of this plan, the Middle East will transform from a 'source of challenges, conflict, or crisis, to a hub for economic activities.' Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, also stated on the sidelines of the G20 summit that with this initiative, 'we are planting seeds for future generations to have bigger dreams.' According to Reuters, this agreement comes at a crucial time for Joe Biden, who is trying to counter China's plan for global infrastructure development and present the U.S. as a better option for developing countries. Earlier reports indicated that the U.S., Saudi Arabia, India, and several other countries were negotiating a potential infrastructure agreement that could rewrite the structure and route of trade between the Persian Gulf and South Asia using railways and shipping. Joe Biden is set to travel to India for the G20 summit.