RAMALLAH, May 5, 2015 (WAFA) – The first round of Foreign Office Consultations between India and Palestine, aimed at addressing bilateral issues, was held in Ramallah on Monday, said the Indian Embassy in Ramallah in an official statement.

The Palestinian delegation was led by Ambassador Mazen Shamiya, Assistant to Minister for Asia, Africa and Australia in the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Indian delegation was led by Ambassador Sandeep Kumar, India’s Joint Secretary (West Asia and North Africa) at the Ministry of External Affairs.

The two parties discussed bilateral relationships and identified the challenges in the way forward. They also discussed mechanisms to take the relationship forward. 

Other important regional and multilateral issues were discussed during the meeting, including India’s continued support to the Palestinian cause, the latest developments in the Middle East Peace Process, regional developments, fight against terrorism and United Nations Security Council reforms.

The Palestinian side underlined its support to the efforts and aspirations of India to obtain a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council.

Both sides agreed to further promote bilateral cooperation by organizing high level visits, cultural activities and business exchanges, etc.

M.N/T.R