New york: The European Union today urged the United States to reconsider its decision to deny visas to President Mahmoud Abbas and members of the Palestinian delegation to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, expressing regret that the measure has been repeated for a second consecutive year.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, an EU diplomatic service spokesperson emphasized the bloc's regret over the continued denial of entry visas to members of the Palestinian delegation. The spokesperson underscored that, given the United States' existing headquarters agreements with the United Nations and its obligations as the host country, Washington should reconsider its decision.
On Thursday, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution by a vote of 152 in favor to three against, with four abstentions, allowing the State of Palestine to participate in the high-level general debate virtually. The resolution also called on the United States to reverse its decision preventing the Palestinian delegation from attending in person.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates criticized the US decision, highlighting the reforms implemented by the State of Palestine. These reforms include unifying the social protection system based on social and economic need and executing a national reform program across financial, administrative, educational, and legal fields through transparent and verifiable mechanisms.
The ministry rejected any restrictions preventing the full participation of the official Palestinian delegation in UN meetings, describing such measures as an infringement on its rights and the rights of the United Nations. It called for ensuring access to UN meetings for all accredited members of the official Palestinian delegation.
Furthermore, the ministry urged the US administration to reconsider its decision, end its policy of sanctions and restrictions, and engage in direct and serious Palestinian-US dialogue. The aim is to address outstanding issues and resume bilateral relations based on mutual respect, relevant UN resolutions, and the peace plan.