Rivlin reaffirmed the strong ties between Israel and India in meetings with India’s leaders during a state visit Tuesday.

“I have no doubt that my visit here will help the ties and the cooperation between our two peoples grow stronger in security and our ability to keep our people safe, in agriculture, in water, in technology, in culture and in education,” Rivlin said in a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi.

In his remarks, Modi noted the threats of terrorism and extremism both countries face, and the need for more international cooperation to combat these forces.

“President Rivlin and I deeply value our strong and growing partnership to secure our societies,” Modi said. “Our people are constantly threatened by forces of terrorism and extremism. The international community must act with resolve and determination against terror networks and the countries that harbor them. We agreed to intensify our cooperation to combat the forces of extremism and radicalization that threaten all peace-loving nations.”

Earlier Tuesday, Rivlin also met with his counterpart, Indian President Pranab Mukherjee, at the presidential residence in New Delhi. Last year, Mukherjee became the first Indian president to visit Israel.

“Israel and India have a firm alliance of two peoples with impressive pasts,” Rivlin told Mukherjee. “I am hopeful that my visit will serve to deepen the ties between us and your wonderful people with whom we have so much in common.”

Rivlin also visited the tomb of the late Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi where he laid a wreath and sprinkled customary petals on the tomb.