Meath County Council welcomed Ambassador Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Ambassador of the State of Palestine, together with her guest, Senator Frances Black, to Buvinda House, Navan yesterday morning.

An Cathaoirleach Cllr. Sharon Tolan acknowledged the significant and momentous day, when on 22nd May 2024, An Taoiseach Simon Harris together with Tánaiste Mícheal Martin and Minister Eamon Ryan announced that Ireland would recognise the State of Palestine.

She noted that with this act, Ireland proudly stands among the 146 nations worldwide that have taken this significant step. 

An Cathaoirleach further noted that this was not just a formal gesture but a potent symbol of political support and a testament to the aspirations of those who tirelessly advocate for a future marked by peace, democracy, and sovereignty. 

She called for a ceasefire, for the unconditional release of hostages and for unhindered access to humanitarian aid, and that civilians, on all sides, must be protected under International Humanitarian Law. 

Ambassador Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid asserted her desire to strengthen ties between the people of Palestine and the people of County Meath.  She called on the people of Meath to do all they could to support calls to bring conflict in Gaza to a halt.

The Chief Executive, Kieran Kehoe, thanked the Ambassador for taking the time to meet with the Elected Members of the Council and he noted the cross-party support in the Council Chamber for the people of Palestine.  He further reiterated that the only pathway to peace is a political peace process.