SA Welcomes Palestinian Unity Agreement and Plans for Interim Government

DIRCO emphasized that South Africa's own struggle for a free, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, united, undivided, and prosperous nation underscores the importance of unity.

South Africa has expressed strong support for the recent declaration of unity among various Palestinian factions and their intention to form an interim national unity reconciliation government. This follows the signing of a "national unity" agreement aimed at securing Palestinian control over Gaza once the ongoing conflict with Israel concludes.

The agreement was finalized in China after three days of intensive negotiations, with the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, describing the development as a significant step towards establishing an interim national reconciliation government for Gaza post-war.

In a statement, the Department of International Cooperation and Relations (DIRCO) stated: "Palestinian unity has the potential to bring Palestinians closer to achieving their core objectives of self-determination, freedom, justice, peace, and the establishment of an independent, sovereign, and prosperous Palestinian State."

DIRCO emphasized that South Africa's own struggle for a free, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, united, undivided, and prosperous nation underscores the importance of unity. The department believes that unity and solidarity are essential for Palestinians to effectively address the challenges of occupation and oppression and to advance their national aspirations.

"The declaration signals a commitment to overcoming past divisions and working towards a shared vision and future. South Africa commends the Palestinian groups, their leaders, and representatives who have embraced dialogue, national reconciliation, and collective action in pursuit of the just Palestinian cause," the statement read.

DIRCO reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to the two-state solution and support for a free Palestine. The department looks forward to the positive impacts of Palestinian unity and national reconciliation, hoping it will foster hope and drive meaningful change.

"This marks the beginning of a new era where the collective aspirations for freedom, justice, and self-determination of the Palestinian people are fully realized," DIRCO concluded.