Question : Indo-Israel Relations

Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:

(a) the present status of India’s relation with Israel in the context of our strong bilateral relations with Palestine;

(b) whether the Government is contemplating to play the role of the intermediary for peaceful resolution of Israel-Palestine standoff;

(c) if so, the details thereof and response of both the countries in this regard; and

(d) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to strike a balance in bilateral relations with Israel and Palestine?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
[GEN. (DR) V. K. SINGH (RETD)]

(a) India’s relations with Israel have been intensifying over the last few years in all areas of our engagement. India’s relations with Israel are part of our efforts to reach out to the countries in the West Asia region and are independent to our relationship with the State of Palestine.

(b) The Government of India is not contemplating the role of intermediary for peaceful resolution of Israel-Palestine conflict. However, there are international efforts underway supported by Quartet consisting United Nations, European Union, US & Russia and other western countries, primarily France to re-launch peace process. India has not been invited to participate in any such international initiative. India supports a negotiated solution resulting in a sovereign, independent, viable and united State of Palestine, with secure and recognized border, side by side at peace with Israel as endorsed in relevant UNSC resolutions.

(c) N.A.

(d) India’s longstanding policy of extending support to Palestine has remained unchanged and India continues to provide strong political and diplomatic assistance to the State of Palestine at various multilateral fora. India also provides assistance in the capacity building and human resource development initiatives of the Palestinian government. India continues to have forward looking and mutually beneficial partnership with Israel. The President of India has paid first state visit to Palestine and Israel in October 2015 where we have reiterated our willingness to further intensify and expand our bilateral cooperation both with Palestine and Israel. EAM paid her first foreign visit to Palestine and Israel during 2016, which was also her first visit to West Asia region.