In yet another sign of warming relations between Israel and India, the two countries recently signed an agreement allowing Israel to launch a sophisticated spying satellite from Indian territory.
According to the Indian news agency, the launch will take place in about one year from the Satish Dawan Space Center, Israel’s leading newspaper Yedioth Ahronot reported Sunday.
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The agreement is beneficial for Israel because of cheaper expenses and the prospect of improved military cooperation and warmer diplomatic relations with India.
In addition, Israel hopes that the use of an Indian launcher, Polar Launcher, will make up for its failed attempts to launch the satellite into space using the Israeli made Shavit Launcher.
The new 300 kg (661.38 pounds) satellite is an improved version of the Ofek satellite, equipped with state-of-the-art radars that provide clearer vision in all weather conditions.
If all goes according to plan Israel will have the advantage of being able to monitor enemy countries like Iran and Syria.
Israel currently has two satellites rotating the globe, Ofek 5 and Ofek 1, both of which are out of use at night and in cloudy weather.
Saudi repeals economic boycott of Israel
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia was officially
accepted to the World Trade Organization, capping 12 years of negotiations slowed by Riyadh’s adherence to a decision by the Arab League to boycott Israel.
The membership means that Saudi Arabia will open its markets to foreign investors and will abide by the rules of the WTO which include "not having a boycott against anyone else inside the organization," including Israel.
Israel's ambassador to the WTO Itzhak Levanon said Saudi Arabia had provided sufficient guarantees in its accession process that it would follow the WTO's rules.
"Such types of boycotts within the WTO are totally unacceptable," he said.
"As soon as Saudi Arabia accepted all these rules, the door has been open for future relations when the moment is ready for that," he added.
Orli Azoulay contributed to this report
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