PA PM urges the UK to recognize the Palestinian state
Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh called on the United Kingdom to recognize the State of Palestine, support its full membership in the United Nations, and provide aid to Palestinian institutions.
Shtayyeh made the remarks during his meeting in Ramallah with the British Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly.
He pointed out that in light of the deteriorating situation on the ground and the demographic factor, “tomorrow will be too late if action is not taken today.”
"The United Kingdom bears a moral and historical responsibility towards the Palestinian people,” said Shtayyeh. “It must be a positive player in realizing the rights of the Palestinian people and finding a political solution that meets their aspirations."
Shtayyeh added that Israel and Palestine should not be dealt with on an equal footing, adding that there is an occupying state, and a state and a people under occupation.
Shtayyeh reviewed developments in the internal situation and moving forward with the reforms at all levels, which will contribute to strengthening the steadfastness of the Palestinian people and providing them with the best services.
He called on the United Kingdom to urge Israel to abide by the signed agreements, allow elections to be held in all Palestinian territories, including Jerusalem, and put pressure on Israel to release all the withheld bodies of the Palestinians killed by its forces.
The Prime Minister also called for taking measures to implement UN Security Council resolutions, especially Resolution 2334, supported by Britain, and ordered the cessation of all Israeli settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem.
For his part, Cleverly affirmed his country's belief and commitment to the two-state solution and continued support for building Palestinian institutions.