Representatives from 14 Palestinian factions, including senior officials from Hamas and Fatah, convened in Beijing for landmark negotiations hosted by the Chinese government. The factions pledged to end longstanding divisions and strengthen Palestinian unity by signing the Beijing Declaration.
For nearly two decades, internal strife between Hamas and Fatah has posed significant challenges to peace efforts in the Middle East. Since the violent clashes in 2007 that led to Hamas’s control over the Gaza Strip, reconciliation has remained elusive despite numerous attempts by the United Nations and countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Switzerland, and China to bridge the divide.
The Beijing summit marks a significant step forward, as all Palestinian factions agreed to achieve comprehensive national unity within the framework of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). They committed to establishing an independent Palestinian state in accordance with United Nations resolutions and ensuring the protection of Palestine as outlined in UN General Assembly Resolution 194, which includes the right of return for Palestinian refugees.
Participants affirmed the Palestinian people’s right to resist occupation in accordance with international law and the UN Charter. A significant outcome of the talks was the decision to issue a decree by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to form an interim national unity government based on the consensus of all factions.
China’s role as a mediator highlights its growing influence in international diplomacy, particularly in the Middle East. By facilitating dialogues that lead to tangible commitments, China is contributing to regional peace and security.
The successful negotiations in Beijing offer renewed hope for lasting unity among Palestinian factions and a potential pathway toward resolving longstanding conflicts in the region.
Reference(s):
Beijing negotiations: China's role in the Palestinian peace process
cgtn.com
