New Delhi: Billionaire Gautam Adani on Tuesday met Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the occasion of the official handover of the Haifa Port to the Adani Group. The group acquired the strategic Israeli port, with a local partner, Gadot, for USD 1.2 billion.
He vowed to transform the skyline of this Mediterranean city as part of its decision to invest more in the Jewish nation, including opening an artificial intelligence lab in Tel Aviv.
"Privileged to meet with @IsraeliPM @netanyahu on this momentous day as the Port of Haifa is handed over to the Adani Group. The Abraham Accord will be a game changer for the Mediterranean sea logistics. Adani Gadot set to transform Haifa Port into a landmark for all to admire," the billionaire tweeted on Tuesday.
While speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Adani said that today’s occasion is the outcome of a lot of hard work that has been put in over the past 6 years. He further stated that over the years "we have struck many critical partnerships that include Elbit Systems, Israel Weapon Systems, and Israel Innovation Authority."
Adani said that his company is also in the process of setting up an Artificial Intelligence lab in Tel Aviv which will work in close collaboration with our new AI labs in India and US. "We also anticipate establishing collaborative relationships with local colleges like the University of Haifa to be able to capitalize on the deep technology expertise available in this city. And now we have the most momentous partnership of all – the Haifa Port along with our valued partner Gadot," he added.
Addressing Prime Minister Netanyahu, Adani said, "this privatization initiative was actioned at a time when you were the Prime Minister, and it is only fitting that today it is you who is handing the port over to us at this memorable ceremony."
He stated that he is confident that with the support from the Government of Israel, the local authorities, and partner Gadot, his company will be able to transform the entire port landscape.
Adani further stated, "We realize that there will be competition from others, but our confidence comes from our belief in the people of Israel and therefore our belief in the Israel Growth story." "Our intention is to make the right set of investments that will not just make the Adani Gadot partnership proud but will make the whole of Israel proud."
The acquisition of the Haifa port also comes with a significant amount of real estate, he said. "And I promise you that in the years to come we will transform the skyline we see around us. The Haifa of tomorrow - will look very different from the Haifa that you see today. With your support – we will deliver on this commitment and do our part to transform this city," Adani added.
Adani is a first-generation entrepreneur and the Adani Group comprises 7 publicly listed entities with businesses spanning energy, ports and logistics, mining and resources, gas, defence and aerospace and airports.