India has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi assuring Arab foreign ministers of India's continued backing for the people of Palestine and their pursuit of peace. This commitment was conveyed during a meeting with a delegation of Arab leaders in New Delhi for the second India-Arab Foreign Ministers' Meeting (FMM).
Modi conveyed his appreciation for the Arab League's role in fostering regional peace and stability and welcomed ongoing efforts to achieve peace, including the Gaza peace plan. He highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between India and the Arab world, emphasizing their role in strengthening bilateral relations. Modi also expressed optimism that enhanced cooperation in technology, energy, trade, and innovation would create new opportunities and elevate the India-Arab partnership.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of strengthening stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. He voiced serious concerns about terrorism and called for global cooperation to combat it, emphasizing a "zero-tolerance" approach as an "uncompromising universal norm". Jaishankar highlighted the strong partnerships India maintains with all Arab League members, noting the presence of large Indian expatriate communities, key energy sources, major trade relationships, and emerging technology and connectivity initiatives.
During the India-Arab FMM, discussions centered on expanding cooperation in various sectors, including digital infrastructure, space, and start-ups. Counter-terrorism efforts and parliamentary exchanges were also addressed, with the aim of deepening India-Arab partnerships. Jaishankar emphasized that the meeting occurred during a period of significant global transition, with politics, economics, technology, and demography all playing crucial roles.
Palestine has expressed gratitude for India's consistent support, particularly at the United Nations and the Human Rights Council, as well as for India's ongoing humanitarian, economic, and development assistance. A Palestinian minister conveyed hope that Prime Minister Modi would visit Palestine in the near future, underscoring the strong bilateral relations between the two countries.
India's support for Palestine dates back to recognizing the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in 1974 and the State of Palestine in 1988. India has historically been a proponent of Palestinian self-determination. India has provided substantial development assistance to Palestine, with projects worth millions of dollars currently underway.
