Ramallah: President Mahmoud Abbas received a phone call from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday evening. During the call, they discussed the latest developments in the Palestinian territories.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas reiterated the priority of achieving an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the acceleration of humanitarian aid delivery to end the war of starvation, the release of hostages and prisoners, ensuring the State of Palestine fully assumes its responsibilities in the Gaza Strip, and a full Israeli withdrawal. He also emphasized the importance of achieving comprehensive calm in the West Bank to halt settlement activity and annexation attempts, curb settler terrorism, release withheld Palestinian funds, and halt attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites.
The President praised the outcomes of the ministerial meeting of the International Peace Conference in New York and stressed the importance of building on them at the upcoming summit-level meeting scheduled for September 22 during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. He expressed gratitude towards the countries that recognized the State of Palestine and urged those that have not yet done so to take this step.
President Abbas thanked the Australian Prime Minister for Australia's political positions and its economic and humanitarian support, particularly the recent aid provided to the Gaza Strip and UNRWA. He commended Australia's commitment to the two-state solution and its constructive approach to recognizing the State of Palestine. He highlighted the significant role Australia can play in fostering peace and stability in the region.
At the conclusion of the call, it was agreed to continue coordination and for President Abbas and Prime Minister Albanese to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting aims to work collaboratively towards achieving peace and strengthening bilateral relations between the State of Palestine and Australia at various levels.