Palestinian President Meets Cypriot Archbishop to Discuss Preservation of Christian Sites

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met with Cyprus' Orthodox Archbishop Georgios III in Nicosia to discuss the preservation of Christian sites in Palestine, the Palestinian News and Information Agency (WAFA) said in a statement.

Abbas briefed the archbishop on the latest developments in Palestine, emphasizing that maintaining the Christian presence is a national priority and essential to safeguarding the Holy Land's historical and cultural identity, according to WAFA.

The president underscored the need to protect Islamic and Christian holy sites and preserve their historical and legal status, WAFA reported.

He condemned Israeli authorities' measures against churches and their institutions, as well as restrictions on freedom of worship and access to holy places, the agency said.

Abbas also condemned a terrorist attack on the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George in Jordan's Karak Governorate, which resulted in several casualties.

The meeting was attended by several high-ranking officials, including PLO Executive Committee member Ziad Abu Amr and Palestine's ambassador to Cyprus, Abdullah Attari.

Abbas arrived in Cyprus for an official visit at the invitation of Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides.

Background

Palestine has a significant Christian population, with many historic churches and sites located in the region.

The preservation of these sites is crucial to maintaining the cultural and historical heritage of the Holy Land.