Fayyad : Olive trees more deep-rooted than fragile settlements

http://maannews.net/eng/ViewDetails.aspx?ID=266550

Fayyad : Olive trees more deep-rooted than fragile settlements

Published today 09:28

Bethlehem – Ma'an – "The newest olive tree in our country is more deep-rooted than the fragile walls and settlements," said caretaker Prime Minister Salam Fayyad Saturday, as he met with members of the popular committees against the wall in Beit Jala, Bethlehem.

Fayyad spoke with international activists and Palestinian committee members at the site of wall's latest construction in Beit Jala, condemning the Israeli annexation of land and uprooting of olive trees to build the separation wall. "Deep in the roots of these olive trees, there is something that reminds us that our people lived here from the beginning and will continue to the end," he told the gathered crowds of protestors.

"We will continue to work and build in all Palestinian territories occupied in 1967, paying no attention to the unjust classifications and the so-called C zones.

"Our efforts will not stop until we build an independent Palestinian state. Statehood is a dream that can be realized through insistence and survivial on this land, and through persistence as the whole world supports us," Fayyad said.

Fayyad assured that the Ramallah leadership will continue to enable Palestinians to be steadfast against the occupation by offering services and ensuring their basic needs to protect their land.

Minister of prisoners affairs, Issa Qaraqe attended the rally, as well as Jamal Zaqout, presidential advisor, and Beit Jala's mayor, Raji Zeidan.