Russia welcomes Hussein al-Sheikh's appointment as Palestinian vice president

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russia on Tuesday welcomed Hussein al-Sheikh's election to the position of Palestinian vice president. ​​​​​

The Russian Foreign Ministry praised Sheikh as "a responsible and experienced politician who enjoys respect in the region and the world."

"In his consistent advocacy for a diplomatic resolution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and enhancement of Russian-Palestinian ties, he exemplifies leadership and dedication," the statement said.

The Russian side is confident that appointing him will significantly strengthen Palestinian administrative bodies, laying the foundation for a sovereign Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem serving as its capital and coexisting peacefully with Israel, the ministry said.

"Russia urges immediate start of direct talks between the Israeli and Palestinian parties, aimed at settling outstanding final-status issues in line with relevant UN Security Council resolutions advocating the 'two-state' framework," it noted.

The ministry underscored that the cessation of all hostilities in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the swift release of prisoners and hostages, must precede the beginning of the Middle Eastern peace process.

"We remain convinced that sustained regional stability and a sustainable peace cannot be achieved unless the long-standing Palestinian issue is comprehensively resolved under universally recognized international law. Russian diplomacy remains steadfast in its pursuit of these objectives," it stressed.

Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, 89, on Saturday appointed Sheikh as the first-ever vice president.

The Palestinian Central Council had agreed to create the new position of vice president during a Thursday meeting, with 170 voting in favor, one against, and one abstaining.