Gaza: President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday received heads and representatives of Christian churches in the Holy Land at the presidential headquarters in Ramallah. The meeting was attended by Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh, Ramzi Khoury, head of the Presidential High Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine, Presidential Diplomatic Affairs Adviser Majdi al-Khaldi, and committee member Samir Hazboun.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas welcomed the church leaders and representatives, emphasizing the longstanding national role of churches and Christian institutions in supporting the Palestinian people. He highlighted the importance of preserving the Christian presence in Palestine, particularly in East Jerusalem, and promoting national unity and coexistence.
President Abbas underscored the shared national identity of Palestinian Muslims and Christians, stressing the significance of ensuring effective Christian representation in upcoming elections. He called for the protection of holy sites and condemned the actions of Israeli authorities, particularly the taxes imposed on churches in Jerusalem.
The President acknowledged the efforts of church leaders to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians, especially in the Gaza Strip, and praised their visits to the area. He also expressed gratitude for the supportive positions of Pope Leo XIV and Pope Francis regarding Palestinian issues.
In discussions on political developments, President Abbas briefed the delegation on efforts to end settlement expansion and settler violence. He reiterated the need for a just and lasting peace, advocating for an independent State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The church leaders expressed appreciation for President Abbas's efforts to protect Christian presence and holy sites, affirming their commitment to peace and justice in the Holy Land. They emphasized the importance of Christian participation in the political process and their dedication to their religious, national, and humanitarian mission.