London: British Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs David Lammy and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) cementing commitment to backing the establishment of Palestine's state within the framework of the two-state solution. This significant agreement was announced during Mustafa's visit to the UK, which was in response to an invitation from UK Premier Keir Starmer aimed at boosting bilateral ties.
According to Kuwait News Agency, under the terms of the MoU, the Palestinian Authority (PA) is recognized as the only legitimate ruling body in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs), with the West Bank and Gaza expected to fall under its authority. The agreement also emphasizes coordination between the UK government and the PA regarding Gaza's future, aligning with Arab and Palestinian initiatives.
The UK government stressed the necessity for Hamas to relinquish control over Gaza and called for the immediate release of hostages. Lammy was quoted in the statement highlighting the UK's firm stance against Hamas's future role, reiterating the country's unwavering support for the two-state solution and the establishment of a Palestinian state.
During the visit, Mustafa presented the PA's reform programs, which focus on enhancing financial sustainability and transparency, as well as improving services for Palestinians. Additionally, the UK is planning to announce an aid package for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, estimated at USD 135 million, to provide humanitarian relief, support the Palestinian economy, and strengthen the PA's governance.