They also exchanged views on developments in West Asia and agreed to remain in touch. Sachdeva described the West Asia crisis as being at a “fork point”, with countries facing a choice between continued escalation and negotiations. Their interactions have taken place against a backdrop of expanding bilateral cooperation as well as repeated crises in West Asia. India’s relationship with Israel has grown considerably, but New Delhi also has longstanding interests and diplomatic relationships throughout West Asia. Instability in West Asia can affect the safety of Indian citizens working there, energy costs, shipping routes and the wider economy.