New Delhi, Jan 29 (NationPress) Emphasizing that India maintains friendly ties with both Palestine and Israel, Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian remarked on Thursday that New Delhi could significantly contribute to reconciling the two parties. The visiting Foreign Minister, who arrived earlier in the day to participate in the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers meeting (FMM) and the 4th India-Arab Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) 2026, expressed that Palestine anticipates India's proactive involvement in the current peace initiatives.

In an interview with IANS, Aghabekian indicated that Palestine regards the upcoming meeting as an opportunity to discuss critical matters, including the situation in Palestine, the reconstruction of Gaza, and the peace framework, alongside other topics pertinent to India and the Arab nations.

When questioned about India's potential role in fostering peace between Palestine and Israel, the minister stated, "India is a friend of both Palestine and Israel, and thus can play a pivotal role in connecting both sides and offering innovative ideas due to its friendly relationship with both nations. In this regard, we expect India to take an active stance in any peace endeavors."

Aghabekian continued, "We view the meeting as a platform to address pressing issues, including Palestine, Gaza, and the reconstruction process, as well as other concerns relevant to India and the Arab world."

India is set to host the 2nd India-Arab Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (IAFMM) on January 31, co-chaired by India and the UAE, with participation from Foreign Ministers of various Arab League Member States and the Arab League Secretary General.

The Palestinian Foreign Minister described the New York Declaration as "extremely important" and conveyed Palestine's willingness to collaborate with allies to ensure adherence to the commitments outlined in the declaration.

Regarding the direction of Palestinian leadership following the New York Declaration, Aghabekian remarked, "The New York Declaration is crucial as it outlines our path towards independence and sovereignty. We will collaborate with our allies and nations that endorsed the declaration to ensure compliance with the obligations stated."

On US President Donald Trump's invitation to India concerning the Gaza peace plan, the Palestinian Foreign Minister commented, "India must assess its interests as a global power, economic leader, and democratic nation to see if it aligns with its goals. I cannot dictate to nations whether to participate or not; that decision rests with each country based on its aspirations."

Aghabekian stated that the peace talks hinge upon Hamas ceasing its armed activities and prioritizing the unity of the State of Palestine.

Recently, US President Donald Trump initiated the Board of Peace at Davos, presenting a US-backed initiative aimed at establishing peace, facilitating crossings, demilitarizing armed factions, and kickstarting long-term reconstruction and economic recovery in Gaza. "This is a very exciting day," Trump expressed, characterizing the initiative as a transition from conflict to reconstruction.

On the matter of Hamas' connections with Pakistan and other militant groups, he stated, "We condemn any form of violence and any disputes between nations that are addressed through violence. Any border disputes should be resolved in accordance with international law and through negotiation."