India reiterates support for negotiated two-state solution in Palestine: MEA Secretary Ranganathan

India reiterated on Tuesday its commitment to a negotiated two-state solution for Palestine, reaffirming its consistent support for the Palestinian people. External Affairs Ministry Secretary Sripriya Ranganathan made the remarks during an official visit to Egypt, Palestine, and Lebanon from August 16-21. Ranganathan met with Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, discussing India-Palestine bilateral relations and the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The two leaders reviewed the extensive development cooperation initiatives between India and Palestine, emphasizing the importance of addressing Gaza's humanitarian needs through sustained assistance and continued dialogue. India supports a vision of two states living side by side in peace and security within recognized borders, in line with international law.

Both leaders discussed the full range of India-Palestine relations, focusing on the current situation in Palestine, developments in Gaza, humanitarian requirements, and India's long-standing development partnership with the Palestinian people. Ranganathan emphasized India's consistent support for the Palestinian people and a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. The ongoing initiatives in health, education, and capacity-building were also reviewed during the meeting.

The Palestinian Foreign Minister expressed gratitude for India's support through development projects, capacity-building programs, scholarships, humanitarian assistance, and contributions to Palestinian institutions and UN agencies, recalling her successful visit to India in January this year.