Oslo: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr St¸re in Oslo to discuss the latest political developments in Palestine and ways to strengthen bilateral relations.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas expressed appreciation for Norway's support of the Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, which included Norway's recognition of the State of Palestine in 2014. He thanked the Norwegian leadership and citizens for their continued political and economic backing, particularly in humanitarian and development aid.
The discussions covered recent political events concerning the Palestinian issue, regional and international matters, and ways to enhance the historical ties and bonds of friendship between the two countries. Additionally, President Abbas reviewed efforts to solidify the Gaza Strip ceasefire and emphasized the need to implement the next phase of US President Donald Trump's plan.
President Abbas reiterated the unity of Palestinian territory and rejected any attempts to separate Gaza from the West Bank. He called for a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Strip and for the Palestinian government to assume its responsibilities throughout all Palestinian territories based on one authority, law, and armed force.
The President informed the Norwegian Prime Minister about Israeli violations in the West Bank, including Jerusalem, and the seriousness of occupation decisions aimed at annexation, settlement expansion, and violation of holy sites. He stressed the necessity of confronting these actions and adhering to international law.
President Abbas highlighted that these measures violate international law and UN resolutions, undermine Palestinian state institutions, and threaten the two-state solution. He called for urgent European and international action to halt annexation and hold Israel accountable for its violations.
Additionally, President Abbas urged Norway, the EU, the US, and international partners to pressure Israel to end its financial restrictions and illegal tax deductions impacting Palestinian revenues. He also emphasized the need for the release of withheld funds.
The President briefed Prime Minister St¸re on the Palestinian government's national reform program aimed at modernizing the state's legal and institutional framework, strengthening governance principles, and ensuring elections are held as scheduled.
The meeting was attended by key Palestinian officials, including Ziad Abu Amr, Majdi Al-Khalidi, and Ambassador Marie Antoinette Sedin.
