PM Modi, Mahmoud Abbas to discuss political process in the region: Palestine

NEW DELHI: Terming Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Palestine, the first by an Indian premier, as "historic and important", Palestinian presidency today said Modi and president Mahmoud Abbas will hold talks on the latest developments in the political process in the region as also other international issues of "common concern".

"The Palestinian presidency welcomed the historic and important visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the city of Ramallah on Saturday, the first of an Indian prime minister to Palestine," according to the official Palestinian news and information agency 'WAFA'.


The presidency announced that president Abbas and his guest, the Indian prime minister, will hold a session of important talks, which will address the latest developments in the political process in the region because of India's international stature, it said.

The meeting will also discuss regional and international situations of common concern, it said, adding the visit will also be an opportunity to thank India for its continued support for peace and the right of Palestinian people to freedom and independence.

On Modi's travel to Palestine, external affairs ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said the prime minister will travel to Palestine via Amman.

"The Government of India and its leadership are very grateful to the Jordanian authorities and leadership for the wholehearted cooperation being extended for the prime minister's transit," Kumar said.

The visit will witness signing of a number of bilateral agreements aimed at strengthening the bonds of friendship and enhancing cooperation in a number of important fields, WAFA said.

President Abbas will hold a luncheon in honour of the "guest of Palestine" and his delegation, followed by a press conference by the two leaders, the report said.