Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has arrived in Islamabad on a three-day visit to Pakistan on the invitation of President Asif Ali Zardari. He was greeted by Minister-in-waiting Makhdoom Shahabuddin. This is his first visit to Pakistan after the recognition of Palestine as a Non-member Observer State by the United Nations (UN).
Pakistan co-sponsored the UNGA Resolution that granted this status to Palestine on 29 November, 2012. President Abbas last visited Pakistan in February 2010. President Abbas's engagements would include delegation level talks followed by a luncheon hosted by the President.
During his stay‚ President Abbas will hold talks with President Zardari. The two leaders are likely to discuss various aspects of bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual interest. According to official sources, both leaders will exchange views on bilateral issues of mutual interest, as well as issues pertaining to the Muslim world. A meeting with Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf is also being worked out.
They said that as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and Vice-Chairman of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation, Pakistan is considered highly influential for Palestinians. President Abbas will be welcomed by a Guard of Honour. A formal welcoming ceremony will be held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr where President Asif Ali Zardari will receive him today (Sunday). President Abbas's engagements would include delegation level talks with Pakistani counterparts.