Background on Varsen Aghabekian Shahin and His Role
Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Palestinian Authority, recently emphasized that recognizing a Palestinian state is not merely symbolic. His statement came after a meeting with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in Rome.
Shahin’s Perspective on State Recognition
Shahin stated that recognizing a Palestinian state is not just a symbolic gesture but offers a “perspective of future.” He highlighted that this recognition supports the two-state solution, which has been eroded over time. Furthermore, he stressed that the only viable solution is to acknowledge a Palestinian state living peacefully and securely alongside Israel.
Italian Government’s Stance
The Italian government, however, believes that recognizing a Palestinian state cannot occur before its establishment. According to Tajani, “As long as there is no state, it’s difficult to officially recognize one. We recognize the Palestinian National Authority, which we receive with a genuine sense of friendship.”
Recent Developments in International Recognition
In late July, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France would recognize Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly, scheduled for September 9-23 in New York. More than a dozen Western countries have urged others to follow suit.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Varsen Aghabekian Shahin? He is the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Palestinian Authority, responsible for handling international relations on behalf of the Palestinian government.
- What did Shahin say about recognizing a Palestinian state? He emphasized that such recognition is not symbolic but offers a future perspective, supporting the two-state solution and coexistence with Israel.
- What is the Italian government’s position on recognizing a Palestinian state? The Italian government believes that recognition should occur after the establishment of a Palestinian state, currently recognizing the Palestinian National Authority instead.
- What recent developments have taken place in international recognition of Palestine? French President Emmanuel Macron announced France’s intention to recognize Palestine at the UN General Assembly, and over a dozen Western countries have called on others to follow suit.
