London: Ambassador Husam Zomlot inaugurated the Embassy of the State of Palestine to the UK with the unveiling of the Embassy's official plaque in London, according to the Palestinian Embassy to the UK.
According to Palestine news and Information Agency - WAFA, Zomlot inaugurated the Embassy following the UK's recognition of the State of Palestine last September and the completion of the necessary official and protocol arrangements between the two states. The new plaque replaces the former designation of the 'Palestinian Mission to the UK' with 'Embassy of the State of Palestine', reflecting the embassy's full diplomatic status.
Addressing senior UK officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the Palestinian community, Ambassador Zomlot, on behalf of President Mahmoud Abbas and the Palestinian people, thanked the British Government and the British people, stressing that the inauguration is the outcome of a 100 years of relentless struggle by the Palestinian people.
Ambassador Zomlot stated that the day signifies hope and steadfastness, emphasizing that peace is inevitable when rooted in justice, dignity, and equality. He described the inauguration as recognition of the Palestinian people's right to sovereign statehood and equality among nations, asserting that the embassy symbolizes the undeniable identity, presence, and value of Palestinian lives.
Highlighting the significance of the event, he noted the monumental nature of the moment for a people denied self-determination for over a century. He remarked that the Palestinian community in Britain now has a home away from home, a representation of Palestine on British soil.
Ambassador Zomlot reaffirmed Palestine's commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace based on international law, ending Israeli occupation, and fulfilling the rights of Palestinian refugees. The ceremony was attended by the Marshal of Diplomatic Corps, senior FCDO officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and leaders and members of the Palestinian community in Britain.