With renewed calls for peace, reconstruction, and an end to prolonged conflict, Dr. Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine, is on her first official visit to India. Speaking to journalists in New Delhi on Thursday, she stressed the urgency of achieving Palestinian statehood, arguing that lasting peace in West Asia cannot be realised without ending occupation and restoring sovereignty to the Palestinian people.
Dr. Shahin highlighted the long-standing relationship between India and Palestine, describing it as one rooted in historical solidarity and consistent diplomatic support. She praised India’s position on international law and its backing of the two-state solution, noting that New Delhi has repeatedly supported Palestinian self-determination in global forums. According to her, India’s balanced approach allows it to play a constructive role in easing tensions and encouraging dialogue in the region.
Reflecting on her maiden visit, Dr. Shahin described India as a vibrant democracy with a legacy of advocating peaceful coexistence. She said her primary expectation from the visit was the continuation of India’s diplomatic engagement in support of a clear and viable path toward a sovereign Palestinian state. She emphasised that such a vision must move beyond statements and translate into concrete political momentum that addresses the realities on the ground.
The Palestinian minister also shared her perspective on international efforts aimed at ending the conflict, including proposals for a US-led peace mechanism. While acknowledging that some countries have expressed reservations about such initiatives, she said her focus remains on outcomes that align with established United Nations resolutions. She underscored that any peace framework must be rooted in international legitimacy and provide a credible roadmap toward ending the war and rebuilding Gaza.
Addressing ongoing disagreements surrounding disarmament and ceasefire conditions, Dr. Shahin expressed concern that political obstacles continue to delay progress. She accused the Israeli leadership of lacking commitment to ending hostilities and withdrawing from occupied territories, warning that continued annexation efforts undermine prospects for peace. At the same time, she called on all Palestinian factions to prioritise national unity and act in the broader interest of the Palestinian cause.
Dr. Shahin reiterated that peace requires accountability from all parties involved and adherence to commitments already made under international agreements. She said internal cohesion and respect for national institutions are essential to safeguarding the integrity of a future Palestinian state and ensuring that reconstruction efforts benefit civilians affected by years of conflict.
Outlining her broader vision, the minister said the core objective remains the end of occupation and the restoration of dignity and rights for Palestinians. She stressed that global support is critical and urged the international community to uphold principles of justice and international law. According to her, frameworks such as the New York Declaration offer a clear outline for how peace and statehood can be achieved if there is sufficient political will.
As her visit continues, Dr. Shahin’s engagements in India are expected to focus on deepening diplomatic cooperation and reinforcing shared commitments to peace, stability, and lawful international order. Her message underscored a renewed appeal for timely action, warning that delays in addressing the Palestinian question only prolong instability across the Middle East.
