OSLO, November 30, 2024 (WAFA) – In a historic gesture of solidarity, Oslo Cathedral hosted the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People on November 29, 2024, with the participation of King Harald V of Norway, Crown Prince Haakon, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, and a large gathering of ambassadors, political party representatives, members of the Norwegian Parliament, and members of the Palestinian community and their supporters.

Prime Minister Støre delivered a speech reaffirming Norway's commitment to achieving a just and comprehensive peace in the Middle East, emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and international law.

"Norway stands with the Palestinian people in their aspirations for freedom and dignity," he said, adding, "We will continue our support for solutions that foster sustainable peace between peoples, and for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital."

Palestinian Ambassador to Norway, Marie Antoinette Sedin, also spoke, expressing the deep appreciation of the Palestinian people for Norway's solidarity. "The presence of the King and Norwegian state leaders reflects a strong message that justice, peace, and dignity are universal values that must be supported by all," she said.

"This solidarity is a voice for ending the occupation, supporting our people's right to self-determination, and the establishment of an independent state."

Ambassador Sedin also highlighted the significance of the event as the first of its kind to be attended by Norway's highest authorities, reflecting the depth of both official and popular support for the Palestinian cause.

The ceremony concluded with inspiring messages of support from participants, reflecting the Norwegian community's commitment to standing with the Palestinian people and calling on the international community to intensify efforts to achieve justice and freedom.

M.N