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<p>We have welcomed President Abbas' announcement of dates for legislative and Presidential
elections in the Occupied Palestinian Territories for the first time since 2006. We
encourage the Palestinian leadership to work toward strong, inclusive, accountable
and democratic institutions, based on respect for the rule of law and human rights.
Free and fair elections are an important and necessary step. The UK will work closely
with the Palestinian Authority and international partners to support this. This includes
encouraging the Government of Israel to allow elections in East Jerusalem. We are
supportive of Hamas-Fatah reconciliation attempts, and of the Palestinian Authority
returning to resume government functions in Gaza, helping to improve the dire humanitarian
and economic situation and restore effective and accountable governance.</p>
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