Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called Russia-Palestine relations "truly special" during his visit to Moscow on Saturday.
Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Abbas and the two sides discussed bilateral relations and the situation in the Middle East, according to the Kremlin.
"We are happy to have this opportunity to hold consultations with you both on bilateral relations and on the situation around Palestine, near Palestine, on regional matters," Putin said prior to the meeting, according to a Kremlin transcript.
Russia President Vladimir Putin (R) and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas shake hands on July 14, 2018. /VCG Photo
Russia President Vladimir Putin (R) and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas shake hands on July 14, 2018. /VCG Photo
Putin noted the situation in the Middle East is complicated and said he would gladly inform Abbas of his contacts with leaders of other countries in the region.
Abbas praised the constant development of bilateral cooperation of the two countries and their regular discussions on regional issues, which provide useful advice for the Palestinian side.
Abbas said that Palestine and the region, in general, are going through a difficult time, noting, in particular, the latest disputes over Israel's settlement activity.
On May 24, the Israeli High Court issued a verdict to raze the Bedouin village of Khan al-Ahmar in East Jerusalem, where 200 homes and community structures are slated for demolition.
"Israel's settlement activity is a problem representing the biggest importance for us, as this is very dangerous. We try to use all possible means to oppose their actions," he said.
Invited guests and workers are seen before the ceremony for the transfer of the US Embassy to Jerusalem on May 14, 2018 in Jerusalem. /VCG Photo
Invited guests and workers are seen before the ceremony for the transfer of the US Embassy to Jerusalem on May 14, 2018 in Jerusalem. /VCG Photo
The Palestinian president also voiced concern over the US decision to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem.
"We oppose the attempts of the Americans to impose their resolution of the most pressing Palestinian problems. This has resulted in the break of our contacts," Abbas said.
Ties between Palestine and the United States have deteriorated since the latter declared Jerusalem the capital of Israel in December last year, and relocated its ambassy there from Tel Aviv in May.
On Wednesday, Putin held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mainly on the situation in Syria, according to the Kremlin.
Source(s): Xinhua News Agency