Spain, other countries voice disappointment over postponement of Palestinian elections

(MENAFN - Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) MADRID, May 1 (KUNA) -- Spain expressed disappointment over the announcement by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to postpone the elections.Germany, France, Italy and Spain said in a joint statement by the foreign ministers last night that they firmly believe that strong, legitimate, representative and responsible democratic institutions are essential for self-determination and building the Palestinian state, as well as for the future of the two-state solution.The statement called on the Palestinian Authority to put forward a new electoral date as soon as possible, noting that the four countries are ready, along with their European partners, to support free, fair and comprehensive elections.Furthermore, the statement called on Israel to facilitate the holding of such elections across all of the Palestinian territory, including in East Jerusalem. (end) hnd.aa MENAFN01052021000071011013ID1102009989