ISLAMABAD: From July 21 to 23, Palestinian factions held reconciliation talks in Beijing. On July 23, a historical development occurred as China successfully facilitated reconciliation talks among rival Palestinian factions, aiming to end their divisions and strengthen unity for a peaceful Palestine. China has effectively hosted all factions, resulting in the signing of the Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity, which commits to unifying national efforts against aggression and putting an end to the Gaza conflict.
Analysts worldwide have described the ‘Beijing Declaration’ as the most significant sign of hope for Palestine. It has brought optimism not only to Palestinians but also to individuals globally who are distressed by the atrocities in Gaza. The declaration’s goal is to reconstruct Gaza and subsequently unify it with the West Bank and Al Quds (East Jerusalem).
All 14 factions, Hamas, Fatah, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, and others, have agreed to unify. Some analysts claim that this reconciliation is a watershed moment that paves the road to an independent Palestinian state.
Analysts believe that, after the reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran earlier in 2023, this would be a major achievement for Beijing. “Beijing appears to be strengthening its role of mediator in the Middle East to present itself as a constructive and responsible actor on the global stage.”
During meetings in China, national factions agreed to achieve comprehensive Palestinian unity, incorporating all Palestinian forces within the PLO framework. They committed to establishing an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital, in line with UN resolutions, and ensuring the right of return, per Resolution 194.
They also affirmed the right to resist occupation under international law and the UN Charter. A temporary national unity government will be formed by decree of President Mahmoud Abbas, unifying Palestinian institutions, reconstructing Gaza, and preparing for general elections supervised by the Central Elections Commission.
China and Palestine share a rich history of diplomatic ties that have evolved into a multifaceted and robust partnership. The diplomatic relationship traces its roots back to 1967 when China formally recognized the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. Since then, the two nations have maintained a steadfast commitment to supporting each other on various international platforms.
Since October 7, 2023, China has responded to the unfolding crisis in the Middle East by supporting multilateral efforts to bring an immediate end to the violence in Gaza and contain a wider regional conflagration. It has done this primarily through engagement at the United Nations Security Council, where it is a permanent member, and in other international fora. –Agencies
