BETHLEHEM, December 11, 2006 (WAFA)-Mayor of Bethlehem Dr. Victor Batarseh voiced Monday hope that this holy season (Christmas) would bring peace and stability in the Palestinian Territories.

In a press conference, on the occasion of Christmas, Batarseh said that Palestinians have deep faith that this holy occasion would bring with it the winds of change with seeds of peace that are liable to end the hardships and captivity of the Palestinian people and love resides the little town with the birth of the "Prince of Peace" so that to live together, in peace in love, on this land.

"The birth place of Jesus Christ is suffering just like the other Palestinian cities as the continues closure imposed it has crippled our movements, our trade and our labour force. The Separation wall Israel is building has even aggravated the matter that it has sliced the northern borders of Bethlehem and closed its historical and main entrance," Batarseh said.

Batarseh concluded by addressing the world in general and Christian world in particular not to forget Bethlehem and to give it care and support at this time of great need and contribute in breaking this oppressive siege imposed through visits and pilgrimage to its holy sites.

M.H.(14:45 P)(12:45 GMT)