JOHANNESBURG, December 21, 2017 (WAFA) – The African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party of South Africa, recommended on Wednesday to downgrade the South African Embassy in Israel to a liaison office.

“In order to give our practical expression of support to the oppressed people of Palestine, the ANC has unanimously resolved to direct the SA government to immediately and unconditionally downgrade the South African Embassy in Israel to a Liaison Office,” ANC’s statement read.

It said the downgrade “will send a clear message to Israel that there is a price to pay for its human rights abuses and violations of international law.”

Palestine’s ambassador to South Africa, Hashem Dajani, welcomed the ANC move describing it as “an important decision.”

He said this move is going to encourage other parties and nations to follow South Africa‘s lead.

Palestine, represented by member of Fatah Central Committee Jibril Rjoub, was among 54 delegations who attended the ANC’s national conference.

M.N./M.K.