RAMALLAH, Thursday, January 21, 2021 (WAFA) – Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh called today upon the international community, especially the European Union, to pressure the Israeli occupation's government to enable Palestinians in occupied Jerusalem to participate in the upcoming Palestinian elections.

"Palestinian democracy should not be a hostage to the mood of the [Israeli] occupation. Signed agreements stipulate that all Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including Jerusalem, are allowed to participate in the elections, and we want the international community to pressure for this," said the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister's remarks came as he received 51 foreign ambassadors, consuls and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the State of Palestine at his office in Ramallah, where he discussed with them the latest developments concerning the holding of the national elections in Palestine.

During the meeting, Shtayyeh called on the countries of the world to send observers to contribute to the success of the elections, saying that he appreciates all forms of support for holding the elections.

The Prime Minister stressed that the government will continue its mission to the fullest until the completion of the Legislative Council elections and the formation of a new government, adding that his government will spare no effort to make the elections a success.

"There is strong political will on the side of the leadership, headed by President Mahmoud Abbas, and all factions to hold the elections. The elections are a gateway to end the division and restore national unity after reconciliation agreements failed in that," Shtayyeh told the ambassadors.

"This election is very important to us because it will end the split and bring back democracy. We would like to see democracy flourishing and back on track."

M.N