India has rejected an offer by Israel to help it meet the possible threat of famine, it was reported here yesterday from New Delhi by the Sunday Observer. The report said that the issue will be raised in the Lower House of the Indian Parliament by deputies concerned over the extent to which the Indian Government is willing to go in snubbing Israel for the sake of her relations with the Arab states.
Last month, members of the Indian Parliament criticized the Government for the failure of Indian officials to treat Israel’s President Zalman Shazar in a manner befitting a visiting dignitary when Mr. Shazar changed planes in India, enroute to a state visit to Nepal.
Israel’s offer of help in connection with possible famine facing India was made two weeks ago in response to appeals by United Nations Secretary-General U Thant, and by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. The Observer reported, however, that Israel’s consul was told by the Indian External Affairs Ministry that the offer would be refused on the grounds that its acceptance might harm India’s relations with the Arab states.
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