'Israeli ties not to affect relation with Arabs'

New Delhi, May 29: Human Resources Development Minister Arjun Singh today said the Manmohan Singh governmment was not making any special effort to come 'nearer' to Israel at the cost of its long standing and excellent relations with the Arab world.

Talking to sources before his departure for 9-day official visit to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Mr Singh said India enjoyed good political, economic and cultural ties with the Arab world. India has consistently supported the just cause of the Palestinians.

However, he justified India's relations with Israel stating that ties with any country can not be halted or denied in the present international situation.

Mr Singh, who is accompanied by a high level delegation, including Vice Chancellor of the Jamia Millia and Hyderabad universities, University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman and Secretary High Education, will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Saudi education Minister Abdullah bin Salih Obaid on deepening cooperation between the two countries in the education and scientific field.

The MoU would facilitate exchange of scholars. India will also help the Kingdom to set up Institutes of higher learning. During the Saudi King Abdullah's visit to India in January the two sides agreed to work out modalities for strengthening cooperation in the educational field.

Mr Singh is expected to meet King Abdullah,besides other top leaders of the country and exchange views on bilateral relations.

He will also visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi. In Dubai, he will interact with principals of all CBSE and Indian private schools.

UNI

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