Growing Indo-Israel relationship not a matter of concern for Palestine: Abbas

New Delhi, Oct 9 (ANI): Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas today said that India's growing ties with Israel is not a matter of concern for Palestinians as they remain assured of New Delhi's support for their struggle for independence.

While talking to media persons about India’s growing engagement with Israel, particularly in the field of defence, Abbas said, "India's relations with Israel is its sovereign decision.

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"We are not going to interfere. We know very well that India is supportive of the Palestinian struggle for achieving its own independence," added Abbas.

Abbas also said that he was grateful to the Indian government for the economic support that Palestine has received in the past and during the present visit.

On the change in leadership in Israel, he noted that Prime Minister-designate Tzipi Livni has been “really acquainted with the Middle East peace process.”

Abbas said the two leaders cannot be compared but both belong to the same political party, adding, "The moment Livni forms her own government, we will start negotiating with her."

While talking about radical Hamas' refusal to accept his Presidency after January, Abbas said the Palestinian Authority (PA) was awaiting the Arab proposal to initiate the election process.

During his three-day visit to India Abbas met President Pratibha Patil and held talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who reaffirmed support to the Palestinian cause and to a negotiated settlement of the issue. (ANI)