Palestinian ambassador formally received by Irish premier for first time
Dr Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid’s visit to Government Buildings in Dublin on Thursday marks the first time a Palestinian ambassador has been formally received in the Taoiseach’s office.
Irish premier Simon Harris has met the Palestinian ambassador, after Ireland made the historic move to recognise a Palestinian state last week.
Dr Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid’s visit to Government Buildings in Dublin on Thursday marks the first time a Palestinian ambassador has been formally received in the Taoiseach’s office.
During the meeting, Dr Abdalmajid thanked Mr Harris and the Irish people for the recognition, and said it was a source of strength and hope for the people of Palestine.
She briefed the Taoiseach on the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and the urgent need for more food and aid.
They spoke about efforts to secure a ceasefire and the release of hostages, after a three-phase proposal was announced by US President Joe Biden last week.
The Taoiseach said the onus was now on all parties to “stretch themselves” and to engage, despite any internal pressures.
Ireland’s recognition, made as part of a joint diplomatic move with Spain and Norway, is based on the 1967 borders. Slovenia also recognised Palestinian statehood this week, after its parliament voted overwhelmingly in favour of it.
Mr Harris has said that the recognition of Palestine was the beginning and not the end of a process, and that work would continue with other nations towards a two-state solution.
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