Palestinian ambassador submits credentials to Spanish King 

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The first-ever Ambassador of Palestine to Spain has presented his credentials to King Felipe VI following the Spanish government’s recognition of the state in May. Ambassador Husni Abdel Wahed was received at the Royal Palace in Madrid on Monday, where the credentials were handed over in a traditional ceremony.

The Spanish Royal Court reported that Abdel Wahed has been heading the diplomatic mission of the State of Palestine in Spain since 2022, where he already had the same status as other ambassadors. His rank was changed officially after Madrid recognised the State of Palestine on 28 May, following the example of Ireland and Norway.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced in early September that “the first bilateral summit between Spain and Palestine will be held by the end of the year.”

Madrid has adopted a tough stance towards Israel since Hamas launched its cross-border incursion, Al-Aqsa Flood, last October.

Sanchez pointed out that deciding to recognise the State of Palestine is in line with UN resolutions and is not directed against any party. “We are committed to security in the region, and we will work with Arab countries to hold a peace conference,” he explained. “Recognising the State of Palestine is a historic step that allows Palestinians and Israelis to achieve peace.” Spain, he added, joins more than 140 countries that recognise Palestine as an independent state.

Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares said in Brussels on Monday, alongside his Irish and Norwegian counterparts, “Recognising the State of Palestine is justice for the Palestinian people.”

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