PM Modi meets Palestinian President, expresses 'deep concern' over Gaza crisis

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on the sidelines of a session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

A video surfaced online, showing the two leaders hugging each other as they met.

"Prime Minister expressed deep concern at the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and the deteriorating security situation in the region and reaffirmed India's unwavering support to the people of Palestine, including continued humanitarian assistance. He stressed that only a two State solution will deliver enduring peace and stability in the region. Recalling that India was one of the first countries to recognise Palestine, he conveyed India's continued support to Palestine membership of the UN," the MEA said in a statement.

"Exchanged views of further strengthening long standing friendship with the people of Palestine," said PM Modi while sharing pictures of his meeting with President Mahmoud Abbas on his X account.

Notably, India gave its first instalment of humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza in July, as it released 2.5 million dollars to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

PM Modi also held bilateral meetings with Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli and Kuwait Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. This was the first meeting between PM Modi and the Kuwait Crown Prince.

He also addressed members of the Indian community in New York and held a roundtable conference with top tech leaders and CEOs of the US. He arrived in New York after attending the Quad Summit hosted by US President Joe Biden in his hometown of Wilmington, Delaware.