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Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticized the United States' decision to cancel visas for Palestinian officials planning to attend the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York this month, stating that "Palestinian issues cannot be discussed without Palestinians."
Speaking during a visit to the Türkiye Press Federation in Ankara, Fidan addressed the visa cancellations affecting Palestinian officials, including Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who were scheduled to participate in the annual UN gathering.
"There is a situation where Mahmoud Abbas, as Palestinian President, cannot come because he was not given a visa," Fidan said, emphasizing the sensitive nature of the issue.
The foreign minister explained that while Palestine maintains permanent representation at the UN that allows participation in General Assembly discussions under UN charter provisions, the visa restrictions prevent key Palestinian leadership from attending in person.
Fidan revealed that a special conference on Palestine was planned during this year's UN General Assembly, supported by Türkiye and led by several countries. The conference was expected to feature announcements from Western nations, including France and Belgium, regarding steps toward recognizing Palestine as a state - countries that have not previously granted such recognition.
Following the visa cancellation announcement, Türkiye coordinated with a seven-country contact group from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League, issuing a joint statement condemning the decision as incorrect and calling for its reversal.
Under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's instructions, Türkiye launched a two-pronged diplomatic effort. The Foreign Ministry conducted intensive consultations to explore alternative approaches, presenting various proposals to the president.
Türkiye held discussions with Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, and Oman regarding the situation. "We spoke with all actors involved in the issue," Fidan said, noting that Palestinian officials and other regional partners remained committed to proceeding with the New York program and Palestine recognition activities despite the visa obstacles.
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Fidan stressed that Türkiye, as "a serious state," recognizes this as an issue requiring a strong response. However, he indicated that Palestinian officials prioritize securing recognition from UN Security Council permanent members like France and Britain, viewing such recognition as beneficial to the Palestinian cause.
"Palestinian brothers and others see greater benefit in Palestine's recognition by other key actors, believing this would produce greater functionality," Fidan explained, suggesting this consideration influences the diplomatic approach to the visa controversy.
The 80th UN General Assembly, held annually in September, serves as a global forum where all member states present their positions on international issues.
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