India reiterated its unwavering support for a negotiated two-state solution to the Palestine issue, describing it as the “only viable path” to lasting peace and prosperity in the Middle East, during the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Ministerial Committee on Palestine held in Uganda’s capital on Wednesday.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh underlined that New Delhi remains steadfast in defending the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination, sovereignty, and national independence.
“Our ultimate objective remains a negotiated two-state solution, which is the only path to achieve lasting peace and overall prosperity,” Singh said, emphasising that a sovereign, independent, and viable State of Palestine should coexist peacefully with Israel within secure and recognised borders.
He recalled India’s historical role in NAM, noting that the Ministerial Committee on Palestine was established in 1983 under India’s presidency during the NAM Summit in New Delhi. “Since October 2023 alone, India has provided relief assistance of nearly 135 metric tonnes of medicines and supplies,” Singh added, highlighting the country’s continuing humanitarian support.
Singh condemned terrorism and stressed that civilian suffering must end. “Gaza must have access to food, fuel and other necessities without hindrance; hostages must be released; and a ceasefire must be in place immediately,” he said.
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India also contributes USD 5 million annually to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), with additional projects worth USD 40 million in the pipeline. Singh welcomed the first phase agreement under US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan, lauding Egypt and Qatar for facilitating dialogue.
“At this juncture, it is important for peace and calm to hold. Everyone must honour their respective commitments,” Singh said, reiterating India’s readiness to work constructively with NAM partners to achieve a stable and peaceful Middle East.
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