India welcomes formation of Palestinian National Govt

New Delhi, Mar 21 (UNI) India today welcomed the formation of the Palestinian National Unity Government and hoped that the move would help alleviate the suffering of the common man and in the resumption of peaceful dialogue under the Middle East Peace Process (MEPP).

A statement issued by the External Affairs Ministry said India supports the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people and their efforts to reconstruct their nation.

''We trust that the formation of the new Palestinian Government of National Unity will help alleviation of the suffering of the common man and in the resumption of peaceful dialogue under the Peace Process,'' the statement said.

It also said India was ready to assist the Palestinian National Unity Government in its reconstruction and rebuilding efforts.

On March 6, India had described the 'Mecca Agreement' for the establishment of a Sovereign State of Palestine as an important step and reaffirmed its support to the Palestinian cause.

''India has always been strongly supportive of thePalestinian cause and the establishment of a sovereign State of Palestine through negotiations with the State of Israel. The Mecca Agreement is an important step in this direction,'' an External Affairs Ministry spokesman said in response to a question.

The spokesman said India also appreciated the significant contribution of Saudi Arabia and its King Abdullah in facilitating the formation of a Palestine Government of National Unity in the expectation of resumption of dialogue on the Israel-Palestine track.

The Mecca Agreement, which was signed under Saudi auspices on February 8 at the initiative of the Saudi King, reflects a strategic alliance between the PLO and Hamas in a number of areas including the Palestinian government, the makeup of the PLO, and the conflict with Israel.

On February 8, an agreement was reached between Fatah and Hamas at Mecca, calling for a government of National Unity in Palestine and cessation of hostilities between the two groups.

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