Gaza: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas stated that convening the General Union of Palestinian Students' conference signifies more than just the resumption of activities of a long-standing national institution. He highlighted it as a restoration of the role of the Palestine Liberation Organization's (PLO), serving as a platform for national unity and democracy, a school for developing future leaders, and a bridge connecting generations of Palestinian students both in the homeland and the diaspora.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, during his address via video conference at the opening of the 11th General Union of Palestinian Students' conference in Beirut, President Abbas commended the event, held thirty-six years after the last conference in Baghdad. He noted its significance as it occurs during one of the most critical periods in Palestinian modern history.
President Abbas emphasized the resilience of the Palestinian people, stating, "The Palestinian people have proven throughout their long struggle that the will to live is stronger than all attempts at uprooting and erasure." He underscored the importance of preserving identity, collective memory, and investing in the education and awareness of the youth against occupation and aggression.
He further elaborated on the General Union of Palestinian Students' contributions as a national institution, a political and cultural platform, and a training ground for leaders who have bolstered the Palestinian national movement. He paid tribute to late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat, acknowledging his belief in universities as training grounds for national leaders and students' pivotal role in the struggle for freedom and independence.
President Abbas addressed the conference participants, emphasizing that the history of the Union is not just about celebrating the past but also a responsibility towards the future. He called for drawing inspiration from its values and spirit to develop tools that enhance the presence of Palestinian students in science, innovation, and global public opinion.
He reiterated the priority of protecting students' right to education and rebuilding universities and academic institutions in Gaza, emphasizing that reconstruction begins with building people before infrastructure. President Abbas affirmed the integral role of the Gaza Strip in the State of Palestine, asserting that there can be no Palestinian state without Gaza.
He saluted the Palestinian people living in refugee camps and communities, who have made education a path to resilience and preserving national identity despite displacement and difficult circumstances. Highlighting the establishment of the Mahmoud Abbas Foundation in 2010, he noted its support for more than 12,000 students, with graduates contributing to Palestine's service both at home and in the diaspora.
The President stressed the necessity of youth participation in national and reform projects, emphasizing that empowering them is a national imperative. He highlighted efforts to expand their presence in state institutions, political parties, unions, federations, and decision-making centers.
President Abbas affirmed revitalizing the student movement as part of a broader process to renew the Palestinian political system, strengthen democracy, and build more efficient and accountable institutions. He outlined the path forward, including youth and local council elections, legislative elections on November 28, and subsequent presidential elections.
He reiterated the commitment to building a modern, unified, and democratic Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on the rule of law and protection of public freedoms. He emphasized that the State of Palestine will be a single state with one law, one legitimate institution, and one legitimate armed force.
The President urged the General Union of Palestinian Students to expand partnerships with Arab and international student and youth unions, transforming global solidarity into sustainable action that strengthens the Palestinian cause and enshrines the values of freedom, justice, and peace.
Concluding his remarks, President Abbas expressed gratitude to Lebanon's leadership, government, and people for supporting Palestinians, reaffirming respect for Lebanon's sovereignty and stability. He reiterated that the presence of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon is temporary until their return to their homeland.