PM Modi in Palestine: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on his maiden visit to Palestine. Both the leaders met for few hours. After reaching Palestine Modi visited the Mausoleum of Yasser Arafat in Ramallah and laid a wreath at the grave of Arafat. Modi was accorded a red carpet welcome. He is the first Indian Prime Minister to make an official visit to Palestine. During his maiden visit to Israel last year, Modi did not travel to Ramallah, leading to analysts questioning the future of the Indo-Palestine ties.
According to news agency PTI, both the leader discussed the full range of India-Palestine ties following which the two sides signed six agreements worth around $50 million that includes setting up of a $30 million super speciality hospital in Beit Sahur. Three agreements in the education sector worth $5 million, one MoU for procurement of equipment and machinery for the National Printing Press and one for construction of a centre for empowering women were also signed.
At a joint press statement with PM Modi, President Abbas acknowledged that the Indian leadership has always stood by peace in Palestine. Abbas said he had “fruitful and constructive” talks with Prime Minister Modi and he updated the Indian leader on the overall developing situation in Palestine and in the region.
Prime Minister Modi assured President Abbas that India is committed to the Palestinian people's interests. “Friendship between India and Palestine has stood the test of time. The people of Palestine have shown remarkable courage in the face of several challenges. India will always support Palestine's development journey,” Modi said, adding that India is hopeful of peace and stability in the region.
PM Modi in Palestine: Top 10 developments
1 Palestinian has sought India's support
2 India- Palestine signed six agreements worth around $50 million
3 Agreement in education sector education worth $5 million
4 India stood by peace in Palestine
5 Palestine is ready to engage
6 Non-Aligned Movement remembered
7 PM Modi assured India's support to Palestine
8 India for independent Palestine
9 Grand Collar of the State of Palestine
10 Jordanian helicopter, escorted by Israel Air Force
