New Delhi: Israel's Prime Minister Ariel Sharon arrived in Delhi on September 8 amid tight security on a historic visit that is expected to cement India's strategic ties with the Jewish state.

He is the first Israeli Prime Minister to visit India.

Heading a 150-member, including top representatives of Israeli Defence industries, Sharon will hold wide ranging discussions with Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee on September 9 on a range of bilateral, regional and international issues.

Minister of state for Health and Family Welfare Vallabh Bhai Ramjibahi Kathiria, Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal, India's Ambassador to Israel R S Jassal, diplomats and senior officials received the Israeli leader at the Delhi airport.

He would be accorded a ceremonial welcome on September 9 in the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

PTI