Nicosia:Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met with Archbishop Georgios III of Cyprus at the Orthodox Archbishopric in Nicosia. During the meeting, President Abbas emphasized the importance of preserving the Christian presence in Palestine, stating it as a national priority essential to maintaining the Holy Land's historical and cultural identity.
According to Palestine news & Information Agency – WAFA – English, President Abbas discussed the need to protect both Islamic and Christian holy sites, maintaining their historical and legal status. He condemned any attacks or measures that target these sites or restrict freedom of access and worship. Additionally, he criticized the Israeli authorities for their arbitrary actions against churches and their institutions, as well as for imposing limitations on worship and access to holy places.
Furthermore, President Abbas expressed his condemnation of the terrorist attack on the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George in Jordan's Karak Governorate, where several people were killed and injured. The meeting was attended by various officials, including PLO Executive Committee member Ziad Abu Amr, General Intelligence Service Chief Maj. Gen. Majed Faraj, presidential diplomatic affairs adviser Majdi al-Khalidi, and Palestine's ambassador to Cyprus, Abdullah Attari.
President Abbas's visit to Cyprus commenced last Wednesday, following an invitation from Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides.