New Delhi: In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided not to attend the Gaza Peace Summit scheduled for October 13 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, despite receiving a last-minute invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Instead, India will be represented by Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, who will engage with international leaders on India’s stance regarding peace and stability in the Middle East.
The summit, co-chaired by President Trump and President al-Sisi, is convened to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza and to chart a path for lasting peace. Over 20 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and representatives from the United Nations led by Secretary-General António Guterres, are expected to participate. The discussions will focus on consolidating the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, facilitating humanitarian aid, and planning reconstruction initiatives in Gaza.
Sources indicate that the invitation to Prime Minister Modi was extended on Saturday, reflecting the urgency of securing India’s engagement in the high-level deliberations. While the PMO has not publicly explained the reasons behind the Prime Minister’s absence, Minister Singh’s participation ensures that India’s voice will be heard in the global discourse surrounding the conflict. His engagement will emphasize India’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and regional stability in the Middle East.
The summit follows a fragile ceasefire agreement brokered with the involvement of Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and U.S. diplomatic channels. The initial phase includes the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, while subsequent phases are set to tackle disarmament and the establishment of transitional governance structures in Gaza. With tensions remaining high, the summit seeks to create a framework for sustained reconciliation and humanitarian relief.
India’s participation through Minister Singh reflects a careful balance of diplomatic priorities, signaling support for international peace efforts while managing domestic and regional considerations. Observers note that India’s involvement, even at a ministerial level, underscores its growing role in multilateral initiatives aimed at stabilizing conflict-prone regions and providing a humanitarian voice in global forums.
The Sharm el-Sheikh summit is expected to set the stage for ongoing dialogue among world leaders, with India’s delegation actively contributing to discussions on conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and the broader objective of a peaceful, secure, and stable Middle East.