The Bethlehem Municipality participated in a Zoom meeting with the Italian Municipality of Assisi. The Municipality was represented by its Mayor, Mr. Maher Nicola Canawati, and the Director of the Public Relations, Culture, and Media Department, Ms. Carmen Ghattas. The Municipality of Assisi was represented by its Mayor, Mr. Walter Stubini, along with several Municipal Council members and municipal representatives.
The meeting included raising the Palestinian flag on the facade of the Assisi Municipality building, a symbolic gesture expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people.
In his speech, Canawati expressed his deep gratitude to the Municipality of Assisi for its supportive stance on the Palestinian cause, most notably its Municipal Council’s recent decision to recognize the State of Palestine. He emphasized that this decision is an important step that reflects a commitment to the principles of justice and peace. He emphasized the depth of the historical relationship that has linked the municipalities of Bethlehem and Assisi since 1989, founded on shared human values ​​​​based on respect and solidarity.
He pointed to the difficult circumstances facing the city of Bethlehem as a result of the war, which has led to a near-total halt in the tourism sector, the city’s main source of income. He concluded his speech with an open invitation to the Italian people to visit Bethlehem, emphasizing that the city is safe and welcomes visitors with love, and that hope and international support are essential elements in strengthening the steadfastness of the Palestinian people. During the meeting, the Mayor of Assisi, Mr. Walter Stubini, expressed his full solidarity with the Palestinian people, noting his awareness of the magnitude of the challenges and obstacles imposed by the Israeli occupation. He affirmed his determination to strengthen cooperation between the two municipalities through practical steps on the ground that translate the statements into tangible results. He also expressed his willingness to visit Bethlehem and organize joint initiatives aimed at awakening the conscience of the international community and providing effective support to the residents. He believed that the cities of Assisi and Bethlehem, with their history and humanitarian message, are capable of addressing the world and decision-makers and calling for the voice of reason and life to prevail over hatred and destruction.