ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Palestine on Tuesday called upon the international community to implement the United Nations Security Council’s Resolution 2334 that demands Israel to end its settlements in the West Bank.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas at a joint press stakeout at PM’s House stressed that peace in Middle East could only be achieved by solving the Palestine-Israel dispute. Nawaz expressed Pakistan’s commitment to the Palestinian cause.
“Pakistan will continue its support for the Palestinian cause at all forums. We also look forward to the international community’s sincere efforts for sustainable peace in middle east,” he said. He said the Palestine problem was a long-standing issue on the UN agenda and needed a practical solution. He expressed satisfaction over the opening of new Palestinian Complex at Diplomatic Enclave.
“This architecturally aesthetic project would be a living symbol of our brotherly relationship and expression of solidarity of our two countries,” he said.
He said he held a very fruitful exchange of views with Abbas on international developments related to issues of Kashmir and Palestine. The president thanked Pakistan for supporting the cause of Palestine. He said during talks with Nawaz, he informed him about the latest efforts for implementation of Resolution 2334 and keeping alive the issue of Palestine.
He mentioned the ongoing Israeli barbarism against the Palestinians, particularly at the holy places. He expressed concern over the planned shifting of the US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, saying that the step would manifestly violate the UNSC resolutions. The Palestinian president said he discussed bilateral relations with Nawaz.
He thanked Pakistan for establishing the new building of Palestine Embassy in Islamabad. Abbas also expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended to his delegation. Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry were present.
Earlier, on his arrival, the Palestinian president was given a warm reception at PM’s House. National anthems of the two countries were also played on the occasion.
Abbas was presented a guard of honour by a contingent of armed forces.
Nawaz introduced Abbas with his cabinet members. The visiting dignitary also introduced his 17-member delegation, including five ministers, to the PM. This is his third visit to Pakistan. Abbas earlier visited the country in 2005 and 2013.
