Newsletters
The Palestinian ambassador to the U.K. was officially inaugurated in London on Monday, a move Palestinian Ambassador Husam Zomlot called a "profound milestone" in British-Palestinian relations following the U.K.’s recognition of the state of Palestine in September.
Palestinian Ambassador Husam Zomlot inaugurated the embassy with the unveiling of the official plaque in London.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates welcomed the step and highly commended the United Kingdom’s position, describing the recognition, and the diplomatic and protocol measures that followed, as a legal, political and historical right and an affirmation of Palestinian legitimacy.
It said the move confirms that Palestine is a state that deserves its natural place among nations, and that justice cannot be postponed indefinitely.
The U.K. formally recognized the state of Palestine in September, and a Palestinian flag was raised over the mission in west London.
Addressing senior U.K. officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the Palestinian community, Zomlot, on behalf of the Palestinian president and the people, thanked the British government and its people, stressing the inauguration is the outcome of a centurylong struggle.
"This is a day of hope, a day of steadfastness, and a day that reminds the world that peace is not only possible, it is inevitable, when rooted in justice, dignity, and equality," Zomlot said.
The ambassador called the inauguration recognition of the Palestinian people's inalienable right to sovereign statehood and equality among nations.
"This embassy represents proof that our identity cannot be denied, our presence cannot be erased, and our lives cannot be devalued," he added.
For a people denied self-determination for over a century, this is a "monumental moment," the envoy said.
"Today, the Palestinian community in Britain has a home away from home, a piece of Palestine on British soil," he said, reaffirming Palestine's commitment to a just and lasting peace based on international law, the end of Israeli occupation, and the fulfillment of the rights of Palestinian refugees.
Set as preferred source
5 min read
