RAMALLAH, The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates said yesterday it was appalled and deeply concerned by the opening of Colombian President Ivan Duque of a trade and innovation office in Jerusalem during his official visit to Israel, despite Palestinian demands not to do so since it is a violation of international law.

The Ministry said in a statement that it was astonished at Colombia’s step, especially since the South American state is known for its commitment to international law and United Nations resolutions that affirm that Jerusalem is an integral part of the occupied Palestinian territory, and therefore opening offices to represent the interests of states in Jerusalem, regardless of their nature, is a violation of international law and a departure from the basic standards and international positions that support the two-state solution.

The Ministry called on Colombia to reverse this step, which it said is a reward for the occupying power and its racist policies, and encourages it to continue committing more violations that undermine the chances of achieving peace.

Source: Palestinian News & Info Agency