Palestinian Authority President to arrive in India today
6 Oct 2008, 0951 Hrs

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New Delhi, Oct 6 Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will arrive in India on a four-day visit today.

Abbas is likely to discuss the issues related to West Asia peace process with Indian leaders during his visit. He will also discuss how to further strengthen contacts between India and Palestine.

The Palestinian leader is also expected to apprise Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, and other leaders about the latest developments in the region. President Abbas is scheduled to meet President Pratibha Patil, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition L.K. Advani and other leaders.

Besides, Abbas will also lay the foundation stone of the Chancery-cum-Residence complex of the Embassy of Palestine, being built as a gift of the government and people of India in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri in New Delhi.

Mohmoud Edwan, spokesman of President Abbas, said that the visit would strengthen the historical ties between Palestine and India.

Officials at the Palestinian Presidency said India, which has been a steadfast supporter of the Palestinian cause, has helped Palestine in various fields and it is likely to take up projects in the Palestinians areas.

Besides, the official said, it also sponsors studies of several Palestinian students in its country, especially technical education. This will have a very positive impact on the lives of ordinary Palestinians, they added.

This will be his second visit to India. Earlier, he first visited India in May 2005. (ANI)