RAMALLAH, September 18, 2026 (WAFA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Varsen Shahin discussed with her Australian counterpart, Penny Wong, the latest political and field developments, bilateral relations, and ways to strengthen cooperation between the State of Palestine and Australia.

During a phone call with Shahin, the Australian minister affirmed her country’s support for the two-state solution and its condemnation of Israel’s colonial expansion and colonists’ violence, including the dangerous developments in the E1 area, referring to the measures Australia has taken against several colonists involved in acts of violence.

Shahin, for her part, welcomed Australia’s position and its recognition of the State of Palestine, stressing the importance of translating this recognition into practical steps to support the Palestinian state and its institutions and strengthen political, development, and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The two ministers also discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, support for early recovery and reconstruction efforts, and the need to continue supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), as well as strengthening trilateral cooperation between Palestine, Australia, and Indonesia, particularly in development and capacity-building.

The two ministers agreed to continue coordination and consultations and to strengthen Palestinian-Australian relations in a manner that serves the interests of both countries and supports peace and the two-state solution.

T.R.