Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed strong approval of India’s economic performance, describing it as “fascinating.” In an interview, he lauded the economic reforms enacted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing the tangible results of these policies. When asked about former U.S. President Donald Trump’s characterization of the Indian economy as “dead,” Smotrich offered a contrasting viewpoint. He stated, “Indian economy is really exciting. The way Prime Minister Modi is promoting free market and competition, its results are clearly visible. With an annual growth rate of 6 percent, I think India’s economy will grow even faster. I am confident that India is on the right track.” Trump had previously made critical comments about India’s economy, particularly regarding trade relations. Smotrich’s comments came on the same day that official data revealed India’s real GDP grew by 7.8 percent in the April-June quarter of the financial year 2025-26, exceeding the 6.5 percent growth recorded in the same quarter the previous year. India, currently the fourth-largest economy globally, is projected to become the third-largest by 2030, with a GDP of US $7.3 trillion. This growth trajectory is attributed to strong leadership, strategic policies, and international cooperation.
