PM Modi meets Palestinian President Abbas, voices 'deep concern' over Gaza crisis

PTC News Desk: Amid the ongoing turmoil in West Asia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a crucial meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on the sidelines of the United Nations’ Summit of the Future in New York on Sunday. During the meeting, PM Modi expressed "deep concern" over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the deteriorating security situation in the region.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement on Monday morning (IST), highlighting Modi’s reaffirmation of India’s unwavering support to the Palestinian people. "The Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and the deteriorating security situation in the region and reaffirmed India’s unwavering support to the people of Palestine," the MEA noted.

During the meeting, which took place as part of PM Modi’s three-day visit to the U.S. (September 21-23), he reiterated India’s long-standing and principled stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Modi called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a return to dialogue and diplomacy to address the crisis.

Reaffirming India’s commitment to a peaceful resolution, PM Modi stated, "Only a two-state solution will deliver enduring peace and stability in the region." He also reminded President Abbas that India was one of the first countries to recognize Palestine and reaffirmed India’s support for Palestine’s membership in the United Nations.

The two leaders discussed various aspects of the India-Palestine bilateral relationship, focusing on India’s ongoing assistance in fields such as education, healthcare, and capacity-building initiatives. India’s support has been critical in helping Palestine with development projects and infrastructure growth.

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The Gaza crisis also surfaced during the Quad Leaders’ Summit, which took place earlier on Saturday in the U.S. In a joint statement, the leaders of the Quad – which includes the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India – condemned the terror attacks of October 7, 2023, and expressed deep concern over the large-scale loss of civilian lives and the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Gaza. "We unequivocally condemn the terror attacks on October 7, 2023. The large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unacceptable," the statement said.

The Quad leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution, supporting a sovereign, viable, and independent Palestinian state while considering Israel's legitimate security concerns. The joint statement stressed the need for an end to unilateral actions, including Israeli settlement expansion and violent extremism, that undermine the prospect of a two-state solution.

In addition to his meeting with President Abbas, PM Modi also engaged in bilateral talks with other global leaders. He met Nepal's Prime Minister, KP Sharma Oli, congratulating Nepal on becoming the 101st member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and highlighting the need for a regional response to climate change.

Modi also held discussions with Sheikh Khaled Al-Sabah, the Crown Prince of Kuwait, marking their first meeting. PM Modi thanked the Crown Prince for ensuring the well-being of the large Indian diaspora in Kuwait, which remains the largest expatriate community in the country.

PM Modi’s series of high-level meetings on the sidelines of the UN Summit showcased India’s active role in addressing global issues, from the West Asia conflict to climate change, while strengthening its relationships with key international partners.

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