By IRNA,
New Delhi : India’s commitment to the Palestinian cause has been an important part of foreign policy and has been manifested in the continuous and consistent support to its issues in the Non- Aligned Movement, in the United Nations and in other international fora, said Pratibha Patil.
“In keeping with India’s support to the peace process in West Asia in all its tracks, India has always supported the Palestinian people in realizing their legitimate aspirations for a sovereign, independent and viable State, existing side by side in peace with Israel within secure and recognized borders,” said President Patil, Tuesday night in New Delhi at a banquet hosted by her in honor of Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian National Authority.
“We have always considered that the conflict in West Asia is essentially political in nature and, therefore, cannot be resolved by force,” she said, noting: “Adding that in recent times, India has supported the resumption of direct negotiations between Palestine and Israel. India participated at the Annapolis Conference last November.
India feels it is necessary to sustain the tempo of talks and negotiations on all important issues, including that of the return of Palestinian refugees.”
The president said that India has over the years extended support and assistance to Palestine and its people in their continuing endeavor of nation-building.
“This has been in the form of grants towards developmental projects, the establishment of educational and training facilities, support for capacity building and humanitarian relief,” she said.
Patil said Abbas’ visit will afford the two sides yet another opportunity to renew solidarity in Palestine’s march towards regaining its rights and also further contribute to the development of relations in all fields for mutual benefit.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh reiterated India’s consistent support for a negotiated solution to the Palestinian issue.
He also announced 20 million dollar assistance to Palestinian authority.
Speaking at the foundation laying ceremony of the Chancery building of the State of Palestine in the capital, Singh said that India will continue to do all it can, to assist Palestine in all its endeavors, including capacity building.
Singh, who discussed West Asia peace process with President Mahmoud, said that India favors a settlement, that is based on the relevant UN resolutions, the Arab peace Plan and quartet road map.
Mahmoud Abbas arrived New Delhi on Monday night on a four-day state visit.