BETHLEHEM, December 8, 2011 (WAFA) - Christmas celebrations were launched on Thursday for the first time from Palestine, in particularly from the city of Bethlehem.

In a speech on behalf of President Mahmoud Abbas, in a ceremony held on the occasion of the announcement of commencing Christmas celebrations, Nabil Abu Rudeineh, spokesman for Abbas said that the peace process is stalled due to the continued Israeli rejection of committing to peace terms and rules; stopping the settlement activities and recognizing 1967 borders, in order to resume serious negotiations.

Tourism Minister Kholoud Daibes, who attended the celebration, said in this day Palestine celebrates hope which is “our real message in this Christmas,” wishing Palestine to realize its dream of independence and freedom, “Christmas gift this year was great; Palestine gaining full membership in UNESCO.”

Mayor of Bethlehem, Victor Batarseh, said “the message of Bethlehem will always be a message of love and hope to achieve a just and comprehensive peace that guarantees our people’s rights, which are guaranteed by international charters and resolutions of the United Nations.”

He added that the annexation Wall, which suffocates the Palestinian people, must be removed as in the Berlin Wall.

This celebration comes in cooperation with Bethlehem governorate and municipality, as well as with the governmental media center and other institutions, to announce the completion of all preparations and arrangements for Christmas celebrations, in addition to announce the final programs of these celebrations.

F.R.