PRETORIA, November 28, 2025 (WAFA) – South Africa on Friday commemorated the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in its capital, Pretoria, under the patronage of Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The event was organized by the Embassy of the State of Palestine in South Africa in cooperation with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and the United Nations office.
Attending on behalf of President Mahmoud Abbas was Deputy Secretary General of Fatah Central Committee Sabri Saidam, along with Palestine’s Ambassador to South Africa Hanan Jarrar. The event was also attended by a large official gathering, including representatives of the government and parliament, heads and members of Arab and foreign diplomatic missions, solidarity committees, and civil society institutions.
The occasion attracted significant attention from South Africa’s political leadership, reaffirming the country’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause. It also coincided with the 60th anniversary of the two peoples’ shared struggle and solidarity, and the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
In his address, Saidam conveyed the greetings of President Abbas and the Palestinian leadership to South Africa—its president, government and people, portraying it as a twin to the Palestinian people in their journey of struggle, shaped by a shared memory and a common commitment to freedom and justice. He further commended South Africa’s steadfast positions and historic support for Palestine.
The program included speeches by several speakers.
For his part, South Africa’s government representative, Andreas Nel, affirmed the unprecedented level of solidarity with Palestine, expressing hope and pride in visiting Palestine after it attains freedom.
He recalled having previously met late President Yasser Arafat and a number of Fatah leaders, including detainee leader Marwan Barghouti.
The event also featured a documentary film depicting aspects of the Palestinian people’s suffering, in addition to artistic and solidarity performances.
T.R.
