Israel has backed India's bid for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council.

Describing India as the greatest democracy on earth, President Shimon Peres today said that Tel Aviv wanted New Delhi to become a permanent member of the expanded United Nations Security Council.

Welcoming External Affairs Minister S M Krishna, Mr. Peres said that India was fortunate that it had two great and unforgettable leaders. Mr. Krishna complimented back on by calling Peres a statesman of caliber.

He credited Israel for being an inspiration for India becoming self-sufficient in food production. The Minister said New Delhi looks forward to continued bilateral relationship. Mr. Krishna said economic content has to become more assertive and must keep growing.

Krishna will meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today, besides holding talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman.

Cooperation in defence, security, agriculture and science and technology are expected to figure prominently in the discussions amid India's keenness to widen the scope of partnership in the field of defence.