New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's unwavering support for the people of Palestine during a meeting with a delegation of Arab foreign ministers. The Prime Minister also expressed his support for the ongoing peace initiatives, including the Gaza peace plan.

The delegation, which included the Secretary General of the League of Arab States, was in India for the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers' Meeting. Modi conveyed his appreciation for the Arab League's crucial role in fostering regional peace and stability. He also highlighted the deep-rooted, historic connections between India and the Arab world, emphasizing how these ties have consistently strengthened relations.

Modi outlined his vision for the future of the India-Arab partnership, reaffirming India's commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors such as trade, investment, energy, technology, and healthcare, all for the mutual benefit of both regions.

In related developments, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Oman's Foreign Minister, Badr Albusaidi, focusing on trade, critical minerals, and regional issues. Jaishankar conveyed the trust and comfort of the strategic partnership between India and Oman.

Meanwhile, Palestine's Foreign Minister, Varsen Aghabekian, has stated that India is uniquely positioned to act as a mediator in the Israel-Hamas conflict, potentially fostering peace and development in the West Asia region. Aghabekian drew inspiration from Prime Minister Modi's statement that "this is not the era of war". She also lauded India's significant humanitarian aid to Gaza and its long-standing involvement in developmental projects in Gaza and the West Bank.

Aghabekian stressed the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire and adherence to international law by all parties involved. She conveyed that achieving a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza, along with immediate reconstruction efforts, was her priority for the meeting with Indian leaders. When asked what message she had for Prime Minister Modi, Aghabekian said, "Do what is right based on your values and your great history. You have been for peace, for self-determination and you have been friends with both Palestine and Israel".

India's longstanding position has been to support a two-state solution, with a sovereign, viable, and independent Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel within recognized and mutually agreed borders.