• By Reuters
  • Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:45 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Russia has invited the President of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, to take part in a BRICS summit in Kazan next week, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday. Putin also reaffirmed Russia's support for a two-state solution in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians and stated that the issue would be discussed at next week's summit.

The BRICS grouping has expanded to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, in addition to Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

Earlier in August, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas that Moscow was distressed by the suffering of the Palestinian people and supported their goal of establishing a fully independent state.

Putin emphasised that Russia was monitoring developments in the Middle East, even amidst its own conflict in Ukraine. During their meeting, Abbas referred to Russia as 'one of the dearest friends' of the Palestinian people, conveying their belief and trust in Russia's support.

Putin expressed to Abbas that Moscow is primarily concerned about civilian casualties in the ongoing Israeli conflict with Hamas in Gaza. He stated that Russia is actively working to support Palestine and the Palestinian people. To achieve lasting and stable peace in the region, Putin emphasized the need for implementing all UN resolutions and establishing a fully independent Palestinian state.