In yet another gesture signalling diplomatic engagement with West Asia, India is preparing for the “state visit” of the President of the Palestinian National Authority, Mahmoud Abbas from October 6 to 9. The visit assumes significance, especially after a series of visits by West Asian leaders in recent months, including Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Iran president Mahmoud Ahmedinejad. This also comes at a time when substantive defence cooperation is taking place with Israel.

The last state visit from Palestine was by Yasser Arafat in 1997, which was followed by a working visit in April 1999.

Abbas will be accompanied by the Palestinian Foreign Minister, Dr. Riyad Al-Maliki and other senior officials. During his visit, President Abbas will meet President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, Leader of the Opposition L K Advani and Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed.

During his visit, the Palestinian President will lay the foundation stone of the Chancery-cum-Residence complex of the Embassy of Palestine, a gift from the Indian Government, which is being built in Chanakyapuri in the Capital.