Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and President of the State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas yesterday jointly inaugurated the newly constructed Palestine Embassy Complex in Islamabad’s Diplomatic Enclave, reported Radio Pakistan.
The two leaders hoisted the Palestinian flag at the new building amid a ceremony. The government gifted land in 1992 for the purpose and in 2013 also contributed towards its construction.
Earlier in the day, they also addressed a joint press conference in Islamabad.
President Abbas thanked Pakistan for its support on constitution of the embassy and told the media he had briefed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif about the latest situation between Palestine and Israel.
“I have also informed your excellency about the dangers of moving the American embassy to Jerusalem and its effect on settlement activities,” he said.
Abbas emphasised the need for a joint committee for strengthening bilateral relations and constituting a social infrastructure for peace and prosperity.
He added that he had been briefed on the latest situation regarding India-held Kashmir. Abbas said the two sides also exchanged views on regional issues and the challenge of terrorism.
Speaking at the press conference, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said ensuring peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without just settlement of the Palestine-Israeli dispute.
The prime minister called for implementation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions calling for withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied territory.
He said establishment of a viable, independent and contagious state of Palestine with pre-1969 borders and Al Quds Al-Sharif as its capital is only guarantee for sustainable peace in the region.
He said Pakistan is firm in its support for the just cause of Palestinian people.
Nawaz Sharif referred to the newly constructed Palestinian embassy building in Islamabad and said the project would be a symbol of our brotherly relations.
Abbas is on a three-day visit to Pakistan. He is accompanied by a 17-member delegation, including five ministers.
It is the third visit by President Abbas to Pakistan. He has previously been to the country in 2005 and 2013.
Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif cut a ribbon at the opening of the Palestinian embassy in Islamabad yesterday.
