Palestinian Ambassador Hails Embassy as Symbol of Recognition
The Palestinian ambassador to the UK, Husam Zomlot, has hailed the inauguration of Palestine's embassy in London as a historic moment that proves the country's identity cannot be denied. Speaking at a ceremony marking the embassy's opening, Zomlot described it as "proof that our existence is undeniable" and a reflection of the reality that the Palestinian people are living today.
The upgrade from mission to embassy represents more than just a change of name, according to Zomlot, but a new direction in recognition of Palestine's sovereignty statehood. This development comes after the UK government recognized Palestine as a sovereign state in September, an effort to protect the viability of a two-state solution in the region.
Zomlot attributed this milestone to "100 years of relentless struggle" by Palestinians and acknowledged the challenges they still face today. He noted that despite progress, many Palestinians continue to live under harsh conditions, particularly in Gaza, where more than 400 people have been killed since October's ceasefire.
The embassy's inauguration coincided with a public ceremony attended by MPs, ambassadors, and members of the public, as well as a young Palestinian refugee who was wounded during the Israeli bombardment of Gaza last year. He expressed hope that the embassy would serve as a symbol of recognition for his people and provide an opportunity for their voices to be heard.
The Palestinian ambassador's comments have been met with mixed reactions, but Zomlot's words emphasize the significance of this new chapter in Palestine's diplomatic history.
The Palestinian ambassador to the UK, Husam Zomlot, has hailed the inauguration of Palestine's embassy in London as a historic moment that proves the country's identity cannot be denied. Speaking at a ceremony marking the embassy's opening, Zomlot described it as "proof that our existence is undeniable" and a reflection of the reality that the Palestinian people are living today.
The upgrade from mission to embassy represents more than just a change of name, according to Zomlot, but a new direction in recognition of Palestine's sovereignty statehood. This development comes after the UK government recognized Palestine as a sovereign state in September, an effort to protect the viability of a two-state solution in the region.
Zomlot attributed this milestone to "100 years of relentless struggle" by Palestinians and acknowledged the challenges they still face today. He noted that despite progress, many Palestinians continue to live under harsh conditions, particularly in Gaza, where more than 400 people have been killed since October's ceasefire.
The embassy's inauguration coincided with a public ceremony attended by MPs, ambassadors, and members of the public, as well as a young Palestinian refugee who was wounded during the Israeli bombardment of Gaza last year. He expressed hope that the embassy would serve as a symbol of recognition for his people and provide an opportunity for their voices to be heard.
The Palestinian ambassador's comments have been met with mixed reactions, but Zomlot's words emphasize the significance of this new chapter in Palestine's diplomatic history.