Palestinian Local Government Minister Sami Hajjawi led an official Palestinian delegation to South Africa, where he briefed Arab diplomats on the situation facing Palestinians under Israeli occupation. The briefing, which took place at the League of Arab States Mission in Pretoria, covered topics such as forced displacement, torture, and starvation. Hajjawi also highlighted what he described as the crime of apartheid and the resilience of Palestinians under occupation.
The Arab Ambassadors' Council, chaired by Algerian ambassador Ali Achoui, reaffirmed their support for the Palestinian people and their right to freedom and an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. The meeting was attended by Palestinian ambassador Hanan Jarrar and Reyad Al-Akbari, head of the League of Arab States Mission in Pretoria. The council also discussed strengthening Arab-South African relations and agreed to visit the African Union Development Agency, AUDA-NEPAD, in Centurion on Monday.
Hajjawi's visit comes as South Africa continues its diplomatic and legal support for Palestine, including its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. In December 2023, South Africa instituted proceedings against Israel under the Genocide Convention over its military campaign in Gaza. The country has since sought additional provisional measures from the court. This move demonstrates South Africa's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people.
The Arab Ambassadors' Council meeting was opened by United Arab Emirates ambassador Mahash Saeed Al-Hameli, dean of the Arab diplomatic corps in South Africa. The council's discussions with AUDA-NEPAD chief executive Nardos Bekele-Thomas and senior officials will focus on strengthening Arab-African economic relations. This meeting aims to foster greater cooperation and understanding between Arab and African nations.
During his briefing, Hajjawi emphasized the challenges facing Palestinians, including forced displacement, starvation, and attempts to erase their identity. He described these actions as a crime of apartheid, highlighting the need for international support and solidarity. The Palestinian delegation's visit to South Africa underscores the importance of diplomatic efforts to address these issues.
The meeting between the Arab Ambassadors' Council and AUDA-NEPAD officials will provide an opportunity for both parties to explore ways to enhance economic cooperation and collaboration. This engagement is expected to yield positive outcomes, contributing to the growth of Arab-African relations. The visit to AUDA-NEPAD is a significant step towards strengthening ties between Arab nations and Africa.
The Palestinian minister's briefing and the subsequent meetings demonstrate the ongoing diplomatic efforts to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The international community continues to play a crucial role in supporting the Palestinian people and advocating for their rights. The solidarity shown by Arab diplomats and South Africa highlights the complexities of the conflict and the need for sustained international attention.
Key points
- Palestinian Local Government Minister Sami Hajjawi briefed Arab diplomats on the situation facing Palestinians under Israeli occupation, including forced displacement, starvation, and attempts to erase Palestinian identity.
- The Arab Ambassadors' Council reaffirmed their support for the Palestinian people and their right to freedom and an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
- South Africa continues its diplomatic and legal support for Palestine, including its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
