RAMALLAH, February 13, 2025 (WAFA) - German Parliamentary State Secretary Niels Annen is currently visiting Palestine, where he has engaged in high-level discussions with the Palestinian Authority (PA) regarding the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. His visit included a stop in Nablus to assess firsthand the challenges faced by Palestinians in the West Bank.

During his stay, Annen reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Palestinian recovery and development. He participated in the signing of an agreement contributing €10 million to the European Palestinian Credit Guarantee Foundation (EPCGF), which aims to support Palestinian small and medium enterprises. 

The German Development Bank KfW estimates that this investment will benefit around 1,400 businesses, helping to retain and create approximately 10,500 jobs over the next four years. In total, Germany and the European Union have contributed €50 million to the EPCGF.

In his meeting with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, Annen expressed Germany’s support for the PA’s plans for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza.

He conveyed compassion for families who have lost loved ones and homes and underscored the importance of a Palestinian-led governance process in Gaza. Germany has provided €302 million in humanitarian aid to Gaza since October 7.

Against the backdrop of recent international discussions on Gaza’s future, Annen reiterated Germany’s firm position: “Gaza is and will remain Palestinian. It is an indispensable part of a future Palestinian state. Decisions on Gaza can only be Palestinian decisions.” He repeated this stance in talks with representatives from Egypt and Jordan residing in Palestine.

In discussions with Minister of Planning Wael Zaqoud, Annen also voiced deep concerns about the worsening humanitarian and economic situation in the West Bank. 

He highlighted the displacement of Palestinian refugees in the North and stressed the importance of social and economic stabilization efforts in the region.

M.N