Image credits - PTI
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in crucial discussions with his Palestinian counterpart Riyad al-Maliki during the prestigious Munich Security Conference held in Germany. The meeting, held on Sunday, saw the two ministers exchanging views on the ongoing situation in war-torn Gaza, shedding light on India’s stance on the Palestine issue.
India, a longstanding advocate for a two-state solution to the Palestine-Israel conflict, has consistently emphasized the importance of dialogue and peace negotiations. Minister Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s commitment to this solution during his interactions at the Munich Security Conference. He underscored that an increasing number of nations are now not only supporting the two-state solution but also viewing it as more urgent than ever before.
During an interactive session at the conference, Minister Jaishankar condemned the October 7 attacks on Israeli cities by Hamas, labeling them as acts of terrorism. Despite acknowledging Israel’s right to defend itself, he stressed the importance of upholding humanitarian law and minimizing civilian casualties. His remarks echoed India’s firm stance on condemning terrorism while advocating for the protection of civilian lives.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with Israel continuing its military offensive in response to the attacks by Hamas. The conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life, with Hamas-run authorities in Gaza reporting over 25,000 casualties. India has consistently called for de-escalation of tensions and the resumption of direct peace negotiations to achieve a lasting solution to the Palestine issue.
India’s condemnation of the terror attack by Hamas underscores its commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms. Minister Jaishankar’s meeting with his Palestinian counterpart reflects India’s active diplomatic engagement in addressing regional conflicts and promoting peace and stability.
The Munich Security Conference serves as a crucial platform for global leaders to engage in dialogue on pressing security issues facing the international community. Minister Jaishankar’s participation and discussions at the conference highlight India’s role as a responsible stakeholder in the realm of international security.
As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, India remains steadfast in its support for a peaceful resolution to the Palestine-Israel conflict. The exchange between Minister Jaishankar and Minister al-Maliki underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts in addressing complex regional challenges and advancing the cause of peace and stability in the Middle East.
In conclusion, India’s engagement at the Munich Security Conference reinforces its commitment to promoting dialogue, cooperation, and peace in the face of growing uncertainty and tensions in Gaza.