New Delhi - In a significant move towards regional stability and cooperation, India and the Arab League nations have reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and have asserted a zero-tolerance stance on terrorism. This united front was presented at the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in New Delhi, where representatives from 19 member countries of the Arab League participated.
The meeting underscored the necessity for international relations to be rooted in the principles of the United Nations Charter, particularly emphasizing the respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs. Discussions revolved around a broad spectrum of regional and global issues, including the Palestinian question, the importance of multilateralism, counter-terrorism strategies, and the reform of the UN Security Council.
Both sides reiterated their dedication to achieving a comprehensive and enduring peace in the Middle East, in accordance with international law, relevant UN resolutions, and the Arab Peace Initiative. They voiced their support for the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state, based on the 1967 borders, coexisting peacefully with Israel. They also supported the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people.
A declaration released at the meeting strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms, including the recent heinous attack in Pahalgam targeting innocent Indians. The Arab League member countries expressed their unwavering support for India in its efforts to combat terrorism. The parties agreed to enhance joint efforts to dismantle terror infrastructures and counter terror financing, ensuring that perpetrators of terrorist acts are brought to justice without delay. India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, stressed that "Zero tolerance for terrorism must be an uncompromising universal norm".
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India's continued support for the people of Palestine and lauded the Arab League's role in fostering regional peace and stability. He highlighted the deep-rooted historical connections between India and the Arab world, which have served as a strong foundation for bilateral relations. Modi also expressed his vision for the future of the India-Arab partnership, reaffirming India's commitment to expanding cooperation in various sectors such as trade, investment, energy, technology, and healthcare.
In addition to counter-terrorism, Jaishankar expressed India's eagerness to broaden collaboration into modern areas like digital public infrastructure, space exploration, start-ups, and innovation. He also mentioned that both sides are looking into possible partnerships in counter-terrorism and parliamentary exchanges.
The launch of the India-Arab Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture was also noted, with the expectation that it will boost bilateral engagement and further strengthen economic ties. Jaishankar emphasized India's growing technological capabilities and its development of people-centric digital solutions, suggesting that sharing experiences and best practices in these fields would be mutually beneficial.
Varsen Aghabekian, Palestine’s Foreign Minister, emphasized that the conflict is not a religious war but a struggle for land and rights and urged India to be a bridge between Palestine and Israel.
