LONDON: The United Kingdom yesterday (Apr 28) welcomed Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa to London, marking the first official visit by a PA leader since 2021 and signalling a renewed commitment to deepening bilateral ties and advancing peace efforts in the Middle East.
According to Anadolu Ajansi, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Foreign Secretary David Lammy are hosting Mustafa in a high-level diplomatic engagement that underscores the UK’s enduring support for the Palestinian people and the Palestinian Authority at what officials describe as a “critical juncture” in the region.
A central outcome of the visit will be the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UK and the Palestinian Authority, according to a statement by the UK government.
The agreement reaffirms both parties’ commitment to a two-state solution and underscores the Palestinian Authority’s status as the sole legitimate governing body in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
The MoU also highlights the urgent need to reunify Gaza and the West Bank under PA authority and prioritises the PA’s reform agenda.
In parallel, the UK is unveiling a significant package of financial support aimed at addressing urgent humanitarian needs and bolstering PA institutions.
The coordinated approach to Gaza’s future, developed in partnership with Arab and Palestinian-led initiatives, will also be a major focus of the visit.
“This visit marks a significant step in strengthening our relationship with the Palestinian Authority – a key partner for peace in the Middle East – at a critical moment,” said Lammy.
“The UK is clear that there can be no role for Hamas in the future of Gaza, and we are committed to working with the Palestinian Authority as the only legitimate governing entity in the Occupied Palestinian Territories,” he noted.
“We will not give up on the two-state solution, with a Palestinian state and Israel living side-by-side in peace, dignity and security. I reaffirm the UK’s commitment to recognising a Palestinian state as a contribution to that process, at a time that has the greatest impact.”
During his visit, Mustafa is also expected to present the Palestinian Authority’s reform programme.
The initiative includes efforts to improve financial sustainability, increase transparency in governance, and enhance the delivery of public services to Palestinian citizens. –BERNAMA
