RAMALLAH, March 8, 2011 (WAFA) - PLO Executive Committee member Hanan Ashrawi Tuesday welcomed the announcement of Britain to upgrade the status of the Palestinian Authority (PA) from delegation to mission in London and considered it part of the diplomatic and political achievements of the Palestinian cause.

Ashrawi told a local radio station Tuesday that the international community now acknowledges the need to improve the reality of the Palestinians and legally recognize an independent Palestinian state.

She added that, although Britain has not recognized an independent Palestinian state, it has stated directly that any negotiations must lead to a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital and a just solution to the refugee issue within a clear time frame.

“There is a development in political positions and in the international will to confront Israeli intransigence and recognize a Palestinian state,” Ashrawi said.

She predicted a rise in countries recognizing the Palestinian state to 150 by next April.

The British upgrade of PA status eases visa requirements but does not grant diplomatic immunity.

T.R./F.J.