Erekat: We are not fond of political battles with the US

Saeb Erekat, former Palestinian chief negotiator and member of the Palestinian Liberation Organization’s Central Committee, has said that in seeking UN recognition of an independent Palestinian state along the pre-1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital, the Palestinian Authority’s objective is not to ‘de-legitimize Israel’.

Speaking at an event on Jericho and the Jordan Valley on Monday, July 25, Erekat expressed his hope that no political confrontations should take place between the PA and the United States. “We are not fond of political battles with the United States, nor are we fond of slogans and concessions. Our move does not conflict with anyone, nor does it conflict with the speech of US President, Barack Obama,” Erekat said.

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“The Palestinian leadership does not purpose to de-legitimize anyone, but it aims to root out the occupation from the borders of July 4, 1967, from Al Quds Al Sharif and from the settlements, and it aims at a just solution in line with international law.”

Dr Erekat said, “this coming September the political leadership will face a diplomatic battle that will mark the beginning of a Palestinian strategy and effort to firmly return Palestine to the geographic and political map.”

“Achieving Palestinian reconciliation”, he added, “will strengthen our stance and efforts toward recognition by countries that had not previously recognized Palestine.”