India’s Foreign Minister Jaishankar participated in the first India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ministerial meeting for strategic talks in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. During this, he talked about the situation in Palestine. S Jaishankar described the situation in Gaza as India’s “biggest concern” and said that New Delhi is in favor of an Israel-Hamas ceasefire as soon as possible.
The Foreign Minister said, “The current situation in Gaza is now our biggest concern. India’s stand in this regard has been principled and consistent. We condemn incidents of terrorism and hostage taking, but we are deeply saddened by the continued deaths of innocent civilians.
Jaishankar said that any response should keep in mind the principles of humanitarian law. We support a ceasefire as soon as possible.
On October 7, Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip, launched an unprecedented attack on Israel by land, air and sea, killing 1,200 people and kidnapping 250 others. Israel launched attacks in Gaza, causing widespread devastation and killing about 40,000 people, according to local health officials. The two sides have so far failed to reach a ceasefire to end the 11-month-long conflict.
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India contributed to building institutions in Palestine
Jaishankar said that India stands for the resolution of the Palestinian issue through reconciliation. India has also contributed to the building of Palestinian institutions and capacities.
He said that as far as the humanitarian situation is concerned, we have provided assistance and extended our support to UNRWA. The GCC is an influential group, which includes the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar and Kuwait. India’s total trade with GCC countries stood at US$ 184.46 billion in the financial year 2022-23.
Strengthening relationships over time
Jaishankar said that it is a great pleasure for him to participate in the first India-GCC ministerial meeting for strategic dialogue. This meeting is an opportunity not only to reflect on the achievements but also to chart an ambitious and far-reaching path for the future. These bonds have strengthened over time and have evolved into a partnership that extends to economics, energy, defense, technology, education, people-to-people relations and beyond.
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Jaishankar said, “Our partnership in the areas of renewable energy, technology and innovation, health, space and education can also help realise our respective national goals.”
He said, “Let us use this platform to deepen our ties, explore new avenues of cooperation and build a collaborative future.”
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