JAKARTA, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Indonesian foreign affairs minister Hassan Wirajuda said that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas's visit to Indonesia is a very important momentum for increasing relations between the two countries.

    "Indonnesia has been a staunt supporter of the Palestinian fight for peace," Antara news agency Monday quoted the minister assaying.

Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (R) and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas greet each other during their joint declaration at the presidential palace in Jakarta Oct. 22, 2007. Abbas is in Jakarta for a three-day visit to Indonesia.(Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    Abbas arrived here Sunday evening for a two-day visit to Indonesia. This was the first ever visit by a Palestinian president to Indonesia.

    President Mahmoud Abbas was accompanied by information and foreign affairs minister Ria Al-Malki.

    Hassan said there were still a lot of differences not only between Palestine and Israel but also among Arab countries regarding the Palestinians' struggle for sovereignty.

    Therefore, from time dimension point of view President Abbas' visit was very important not only for increasing the two countries' relations but also in the realization of the Palestinian people's struggle to live side by side peacefully with its neighbors.

    Regarding cooperation agreements, Hassan said there would be some documents to be signed by the two countries relating to cooperation in capacity building.

    "We know Palestine is dealing with various humanitarian problems such as the problem of refugees currently living in Lebanon and the situation in the Gaza strip," he said.

    He said the cooperation in capacity building would be implemented in the form of training in human resources development.

    During the visit, President Abbas would pay a courtesy call on President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Monday and also meet with the chairman of the People's Consultative Assembly.

    The Palestinian leader's visit is aimed at seeking support from Muslim allies in Asia ahead of a U.S.-hosted conference involving Israel and the Palestinians.