31 aug 2013
Archive: Clearing debris of building flattened by Israeli shelling
The Qatari Commission for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip received Friday tenders for three major projects with a budget estimated at $ 100 million. Director of the Technical Office of the Qatari Commission Ahmed Abu Ras said during a ceremony Friday at the Mashtal Hotel northwest of Gaza City that “the past period has seen many projects implemented by local construction companies.
He explained that the three projects mentioned included “the first phase of Sheikh Hamad Residential City (1060 housing units), and the first phase of development and rehabilitation of Al-Rashid Street project, and the establishment of Sheikh Hamad Hospital for rehabilitation and prosthetics,”
“Receipt of these tenders had been twice postponed due to June 2013 developments in Egypt,” he added.
“The raw materials and equipment necessary to these projects used to naturally enter through the Rafah crossing,” noting that “the suspension of entry of these materials was limited to a few days during the tense security situation in Egypt,”
Deputy Chairman of the Federation Contractors Nabil Abu Meileq hoped to benefit the largest possible number of Palestinian construction companies from the Qatari grant projects.
He stressed the importance of a steady flow of construction materials through the Rafah crossing, calling on the Commission to announce more bids to help thrive the Gaza private sector.
For his part, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Public Works in Gaza Naji Sarhan praised what these projects have provided to the economic activity in the Gaza Strip, pointing to the large number of employment opportunities.
The Qatari Commission for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip received Friday tenders for three major projects with a budget estimated at $ 100 million. Director of the Technical Office of the Qatari Commission Ahmed Abu Ras said during a ceremony Friday at the Mashtal Hotel northwest of Gaza City that “the past period has seen many projects implemented by local construction companies.
He explained that the three projects mentioned included “the first phase of Sheikh Hamad Residential City (1060 housing units), and the first phase of development and rehabilitation of Al-Rashid Street project, and the establishment of Sheikh Hamad Hospital for rehabilitation and prosthetics,”
“Receipt of these tenders had been twice postponed due to June 2013 developments in Egypt,” he added.
“The raw materials and equipment necessary to these projects used to naturally enter through the Rafah crossing,” noting that “the suspension of entry of these materials was limited to a few days during the tense security situation in Egypt,”
Deputy Chairman of the Federation Contractors Nabil Abu Meileq hoped to benefit the largest possible number of Palestinian construction companies from the Qatari grant projects.
He stressed the importance of a steady flow of construction materials through the Rafah crossing, calling on the Commission to announce more bids to help thrive the Gaza private sector.
For his part, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Public Works in Gaza Naji Sarhan praised what these projects have provided to the economic activity in the Gaza Strip, pointing to the large number of employment opportunities.
29 aug 2013
A ceremony was held on Wednesday August 28, 2013, upon the completion of Equipping the New Emergency Treatment Room of the Red Crescent Society Hospital in Jerusalem with the attendance of Mr. Adnan Husseini, Governor of Jerusalem Governorate and Dr. Abdallah Sabri, Chairman of Red Crescent Hospital in Jerusalem, in addition to Mr. Junya Matsuura, Representative of Japan to the Palestinian Authority and Ambassador for Palestinian Affairs.
According to a press statement issued by the Representative Office of Japan in Ramallah, this project was funded by the Government of Japan in December, 2012, through its Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP).
With this grant amounted to USD 91,810, Red Crescent Hospital in Jerusalem succeeded in equipping the new emergency room with the needed medical equipments and devices to enable ob-gyn patients who are carried to the Hospital for emergency, amounting at 320 people every month on average, to receive appropriate treatment more rapidly and calmly in a more secured and spacious environment.
Mr. Matsurra in his speech emphasized Japan's firm commitment of supporting Palestinian people from human security perspective as well as the importance of implementing social and economic development projects needed for Palestinian communities, especially in East Jerusalem.
Since 1993, Japan has provided more than $1.34 billion to Palestinians, including its assistance through GGP to more than 320 projects with its total amount of about $35 million. GGP projects have been formulated in collaboration with the Palestinian Authority through MoPAD since 2010.
According to a press statement issued by the Representative Office of Japan in Ramallah, this project was funded by the Government of Japan in December, 2012, through its Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP).
With this grant amounted to USD 91,810, Red Crescent Hospital in Jerusalem succeeded in equipping the new emergency room with the needed medical equipments and devices to enable ob-gyn patients who are carried to the Hospital for emergency, amounting at 320 people every month on average, to receive appropriate treatment more rapidly and calmly in a more secured and spacious environment.
Mr. Matsurra in his speech emphasized Japan's firm commitment of supporting Palestinian people from human security perspective as well as the importance of implementing social and economic development projects needed for Palestinian communities, especially in East Jerusalem.
Since 1993, Japan has provided more than $1.34 billion to Palestinians, including its assistance through GGP to more than 320 projects with its total amount of about $35 million. GGP projects have been formulated in collaboration with the Palestinian Authority through MoPAD since 2010.
27 aug 2013
Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) revealed in a press release that the number of building licenses in Palestine* rose compared to previous quarter of 2013 and the second quarter of 2012.
A total of 2,501 building licenses were issued in the second quarter of 2013.
The total number of building licenses issued in the second quarter of 2013 increased by 9.6% compared to the first quarter 2013. Also, the total number of building licenses issued for the second quarter of 2013 was 14.2% higher than in the second quarter of 2012.
The area of licensed buildings (residential and non-residential) totaled 1.082 million m2, of which new buildings made up 906 thousand m2 and existing buildings 176 thousand m2.
The total number of licensed dwellings was 4,369 of which 3,540 were new units with a total area of 593 thousand m2 and 829 were existing dwellings with a total area of 145 thousand m2.
The number of new dwellings in the second quarter of 2013 was 11.6% higher than in the first quarter of 2013 and 17.8% higher than the second quarter of 2012.
A total of 2,501 building licenses were issued in the second quarter of 2013.
The total number of building licenses issued in the second quarter of 2013 increased by 9.6% compared to the first quarter 2013. Also, the total number of building licenses issued for the second quarter of 2013 was 14.2% higher than in the second quarter of 2012.
The area of licensed buildings (residential and non-residential) totaled 1.082 million m2, of which new buildings made up 906 thousand m2 and existing buildings 176 thousand m2.
The total number of licensed dwellings was 4,369 of which 3,540 were new units with a total area of 593 thousand m2 and 829 were existing dwellings with a total area of 145 thousand m2.
The number of new dwellings in the second quarter of 2013 was 11.6% higher than in the first quarter of 2013 and 17.8% higher than the second quarter of 2012.
25 aug 2013
Venezuela and the Palestinian Authority on Saturday signed an agreement which will see the Latin American country build an eye hospital in Palestine.
The hospital will cost around $15 million and was part of a wider energy agreement to sell oil to the PA.
The hospital will cost around $15 million and was part of a wider energy agreement to sell oil to the PA.
13 aug 2013
A Russian company is set to invest $30 million in a building complex in Bethlehem, the Palestinian Authority Minister of Economy said Tuesday.
The complex will house a music school, gym, administrative offices, gardens and other marketing and commercial spaces, Jawad al-Naji said.
It will be built alongside the Russian Center for Science and Culture, situated on Vladmir Putin street. The Russian government and the Credo company will support the project.
Al-Naji called on international companies to invest in Palestine, especially in local industry.
The complex will house a music school, gym, administrative offices, gardens and other marketing and commercial spaces, Jawad al-Naji said.
It will be built alongside the Russian Center for Science and Culture, situated on Vladmir Putin street. The Russian government and the Credo company will support the project.
Al-Naji called on international companies to invest in Palestine, especially in local industry.
24 july 2013
The European Union said Wednesday that it will finance the construction of seven new courthouses in the West Bank as well as the headquarters building of the Palestinian Bar Association for a total cost of €21 million, according to an EU press release. It said construction will commence in April of next year.
According to the press release, the project is part of an EU effort “to improve the quality of judicial services for the Palestinian people and provide a fitting work environment for Palestinian judges and lawyers.”
It said the High Judicial Council use rented buildings which were both inadequate and in poor condition to serve as courthouses.
The courthouses will be built in Qalqilya, Tubas, Salfit, Dura and Halhoul.
“Applying the rule of law is fundamental to any democratic and modern state and must also be the foundation of the future State of Palestine,” said the EU Representative John Gatt-Rutter.
“Today we mark the beginning of an important work which goes beyond infrastructure. The EU's goal is to support the capacity of justice institutions in Palestine to better serve Palestinian citizens. That’s why in the last few years we have specifically focused on the rule of law sector,” he added.
He said the EU works closely with all Palestinian judicial institutions as well as the Palestinian Bar Association “to improve the quality of services and encourage reforms that safeguard the independence of judges.”
In the last three years, the EU has invested a total of €35 million in the justice sector.
Aside from infrastructure, it supports Palestinian Authority programs in the field of legal aid and juvenile justice and works with the High Judicial Council, the Palestinian Bar Association and the Palestinian Judicial Institute to improve their services.
On legal education, the EU has helped develop master degrees in Advanced Legal Studies across Palestinian universities and the first-ever Palestinian diploma program training candidates to become judges and prosecutors.
According to the press release, the project is part of an EU effort “to improve the quality of judicial services for the Palestinian people and provide a fitting work environment for Palestinian judges and lawyers.”
It said the High Judicial Council use rented buildings which were both inadequate and in poor condition to serve as courthouses.
The courthouses will be built in Qalqilya, Tubas, Salfit, Dura and Halhoul.
“Applying the rule of law is fundamental to any democratic and modern state and must also be the foundation of the future State of Palestine,” said the EU Representative John Gatt-Rutter.
“Today we mark the beginning of an important work which goes beyond infrastructure. The EU's goal is to support the capacity of justice institutions in Palestine to better serve Palestinian citizens. That’s why in the last few years we have specifically focused on the rule of law sector,” he added.
He said the EU works closely with all Palestinian judicial institutions as well as the Palestinian Bar Association “to improve the quality of services and encourage reforms that safeguard the independence of judges.”
In the last three years, the EU has invested a total of €35 million in the justice sector.
Aside from infrastructure, it supports Palestinian Authority programs in the field of legal aid and juvenile justice and works with the High Judicial Council, the Palestinian Bar Association and the Palestinian Judicial Institute to improve their services.
On legal education, the EU has helped develop master degrees in Advanced Legal Studies across Palestinian universities and the first-ever Palestinian diploma program training candidates to become judges and prosecutors.
12 july 2013
The Red Crescent Society of the United Arab Emirates (UAERC) has signed an agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to support the reconstruction of Shu'fat Health Centre in Jerusalem. The UAERC contribution of US$ 2.1 million will enable UNRWA to rebuild and refurnish the health centre on the eastern edge of Jerusalem, which serves the 30 thousand Palestine refugees who live in Shu'fat Camp, UNRWA said in a press release.
The Commissioner-General of UNRWA, Filippo Grandi, said: "I am very pleased by this agreement. The construction of the West Bank Barrier has greatly impacted the lives of these residents, particularly in access to health services. With the support of UAERC, at least now they can look forward to receiving treatment in a modern health centre." Mr Grandi noted that the agreement is another example of the important contributions made by to UNRWA by Arab donors, saying: "This shows how UNRWA and Arab donors can work together to help the Palestinian residents of Jerusalem."
The UAERC has been a regular supporter of the Agency's work on behalf of Palestine refugees, having contributed frequently to providing food aid and undertaking shelter reconstruction projects in Lebanon, Syria, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
The Commissioner-General of UNRWA, Filippo Grandi, said: "I am very pleased by this agreement. The construction of the West Bank Barrier has greatly impacted the lives of these residents, particularly in access to health services. With the support of UAERC, at least now they can look forward to receiving treatment in a modern health centre." Mr Grandi noted that the agreement is another example of the important contributions made by to UNRWA by Arab donors, saying: "This shows how UNRWA and Arab donors can work together to help the Palestinian residents of Jerusalem."
The UAERC has been a regular supporter of the Agency's work on behalf of Palestine refugees, having contributed frequently to providing food aid and undertaking shelter reconstruction projects in Lebanon, Syria, the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.
9 july 2013
The ministry of education in Gaza said on Tuesday that construction work in 39 schools in the Strip came to a halt due to the renewal of the blockade and closure of tunnels. It said in a report that the halt to the construction of those schools would negatively affect the educational process in the coastal enclave.
The ministry pointed out that the closure led to shortage in construction material such as cement, iron, gravel, tiles, wood, paint, aluminum, and electric appliances.
The report detailed the situation saying that work in 12 schools under final stages of construction came to a halt while two others were in the medium stage of construction were halted.
It added that contracts for the building of 25 others schools were terminated for the same reason.
The report said that all seven water wells affiliated with the ministry’s various directorates were closed due to fuel shortage.
The ministry pointed out that the closure led to shortage in construction material such as cement, iron, gravel, tiles, wood, paint, aluminum, and electric appliances.
The report detailed the situation saying that work in 12 schools under final stages of construction came to a halt while two others were in the medium stage of construction were halted.
It added that contracts for the building of 25 others schools were terminated for the same reason.
The report said that all seven water wells affiliated with the ministry’s various directorates were closed due to fuel shortage.
28 june 2013
The Palestinian Minister of Public Works and Housing Yousef Subhi Gariz signed, with Palestinian construction companies, contracts for the implementation of the Malaysian grant projects. The Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Mohamed Najib offered his country's grant of $ 6.5 million for the Gaza Strip, in mid-January during his recent visit to the Strip
Minister Gariz said, during the signing ceremony of the project, that the grant projects include the redevelopment of the Malaysian Rantisi hospital, the establishment of the Malaysian vocational school, the re-building of the al-Noor al-Mohammadi Mosque, and the reconstruction of the Palestinian cabinet building which was destroyed in the recent war on Gaza.
He thanked on the behalf of all the Palestinian people, the Malaysian government and people for this grant, "which reflects the relationships of brotherhood and friendship between the two peoples."
Gariz called on all the donors to offer more support for the projects of reconstruction and development in the besieged Gaza Strip.
Minister Gariz said, during the signing ceremony of the project, that the grant projects include the redevelopment of the Malaysian Rantisi hospital, the establishment of the Malaysian vocational school, the re-building of the al-Noor al-Mohammadi Mosque, and the reconstruction of the Palestinian cabinet building which was destroyed in the recent war on Gaza.
He thanked on the behalf of all the Palestinian people, the Malaysian government and people for this grant, "which reflects the relationships of brotherhood and friendship between the two peoples."
Gariz called on all the donors to offer more support for the projects of reconstruction and development in the besieged Gaza Strip.
4 june 2013
The results of the survey indicated that the value of construction of new buildings and additions in Palestine in 2012 was USD 908.9 million, Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS) said in a press release.
The cost of current maintenance of existing buildings was USD 246.8 million in 2012: USD 177.8 million in West Bank and USD 69.0 million in Gaza Strip.
Capital repairs and improvements to existing buildings totaled USD 392.8 million in 2012: USD 310.3 million in West Bank and USD 82.5 million in Gaza Strip.
The results also indicated that the value of construction of new buildings and additions in Palestine increased by 2.1% compared to 2011. The cost of current maintenance of existing buildings increased by 28.9% compared to 2011, while the cost value of capital additions, repairs and improvements to buildings decreased by 12.0% in 2012 compared to 2011.
The cost of current maintenance of existing buildings was USD 246.8 million in 2012: USD 177.8 million in West Bank and USD 69.0 million in Gaza Strip.
Capital repairs and improvements to existing buildings totaled USD 392.8 million in 2012: USD 310.3 million in West Bank and USD 82.5 million in Gaza Strip.
The results also indicated that the value of construction of new buildings and additions in Palestine increased by 2.1% compared to 2011. The cost of current maintenance of existing buildings increased by 28.9% compared to 2011, while the cost value of capital additions, repairs and improvements to buildings decreased by 12.0% in 2012 compared to 2011.
Israel's Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon claimed he supports the establishment of new Palestinian village in the Jordan Valley.
Israel Hayom hebrew-language newspaper said that the Palestinian village of Rashaydeh is supposed to be constructed to the north of Jericho in Area C that is under full Israeli control (full Israeli civil and security control).
Israel Hayom hebrew-language newspaper said that the Palestinian village of Rashaydeh is supposed to be constructed to the north of Jericho in Area C that is under full Israeli control (full Israeli civil and security control).
27 may 2013
Head of Gaza reconstruction committee in Lebanon, Abdullah Bapti, said that Gaza constitutes a fertile ground for investment in light of the prevailing security and stability in the strip. Thirty-nine businessmen from different Arab countries arrived on Thursday in Gaza City to survey the investment environment and discuss launching new projects in the strip, where 250 businessmen were scheduled to attend an international investment conference in Gaza City. However, the closure of Rafah crossing prevented their attendance.
He told PIC reporter that "investment elements are available in Gaza to enable Arab businessmen to invest especially in housing and industry fields."
He pointed out that Gazans succeeded in developing and advancing production in the strip despite the Israeli continued siege.
During Cairo conference for investment, we approved the launch of a number of projects in Gaza strip and we came here to put the foundation stone for some of the selected projects, he explained.
The Arab committee for Gaza Construction, established in 2009, would keep organizing such meetings to consolidate investment in Gaza and to set up projects in various fields.
He told PIC reporter that "investment elements are available in Gaza to enable Arab businessmen to invest especially in housing and industry fields."
He pointed out that Gazans succeeded in developing and advancing production in the strip despite the Israeli continued siege.
During Cairo conference for investment, we approved the launch of a number of projects in Gaza strip and we came here to put the foundation stone for some of the selected projects, he explained.
The Arab committee for Gaza Construction, established in 2009, would keep organizing such meetings to consolidate investment in Gaza and to set up projects in various fields.
4 may 2013
Plan to reroute Wadi al-Nar road reactivated
The Palestinian Authority's higher planning council has reactivated a project to amend a section of the main highway connecting the southern and northern West Bank.
Original plans to build a new section of the Wadi al-Nar road were submitted more than a year ago to the ministry of local governance’s Bethlehem office and the municipal councils of al-Ubeidiya and Dar Salah. The new section would run through private lands in both towns.
The new route would bypass the hazardous hair-pin bends and steep cliff-side roads that snake around the hills of Wadi al-Nar, or the Valley of Fire. The road is the site of frequent, sometimes fatal, car accidents.
The road used to be a dirt track, but it became the main highway for Palestinians after Israeli authorities closed Jerusalem, forcing Palestinians to take the long detour around the city.
The mayor of al-Ubeidiya, Suleiman al-Asa, says the new section of the road is a top national priority because the road connects the south to the north.
The new route will be much safer for Palestinian vehicles and will reduce heavy traffic in al-Ubeidiya and Dar Salah, the mayor added.
Original plans to build a new section of the Wadi al-Nar road were submitted more than a year ago to the ministry of local governance’s Bethlehem office and the municipal councils of al-Ubeidiya and Dar Salah. The new section would run through private lands in both towns.
The new route would bypass the hazardous hair-pin bends and steep cliff-side roads that snake around the hills of Wadi al-Nar, or the Valley of Fire. The road is the site of frequent, sometimes fatal, car accidents.
The road used to be a dirt track, but it became the main highway for Palestinians after Israeli authorities closed Jerusalem, forcing Palestinians to take the long detour around the city.
The mayor of al-Ubeidiya, Suleiman al-Asa, says the new section of the road is a top national priority because the road connects the south to the north.
The new route will be much safer for Palestinian vehicles and will reduce heavy traffic in al-Ubeidiya and Dar Salah, the mayor added.
1 may 2013
Qatar's reconstruction committee signs contracts for 23 projects in Gaza
The Qatari committee for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip signed on Monday contracts to carry out 23 construction projects to rebuild what had been destroyed during Israel's wars on the besieged enclave.
The projects include the construction of the second and third stages of Salahuddin Street as well as different residential structures and roads.
During the signing ceremony in Gaza, director of the technical office of the reconstruction committee Ahmed Abu Ras said that the signing of these contracts came six months after implementing the first stage of the Qatari grant projects.
Abu Ras hailed the Qatari leadership for financing these projects and the efforts it has made in cooperation with Egypt to facilitate the access of building materials and equipment to Gaza.
He noted that the total cost of implementing all stages of the Qatari reconstruction grant is estimated at 70 million dollars.
The projects include the construction of the second and third stages of Salahuddin Street as well as different residential structures and roads.
During the signing ceremony in Gaza, director of the technical office of the reconstruction committee Ahmed Abu Ras said that the signing of these contracts came six months after implementing the first stage of the Qatari grant projects.
Abu Ras hailed the Qatari leadership for financing these projects and the efforts it has made in cooperation with Egypt to facilitate the access of building materials and equipment to Gaza.
He noted that the total cost of implementing all stages of the Qatari reconstruction grant is estimated at 70 million dollars.
26 apr 2013
PA, USAID work to reduce Qalandia traffic
The Palestinian Authority is working with the US Agency for International Development to reduce traffic on Qalandia road leading to Ramallah.
The minister of public works, Maher Ghneim, said Thursday that his ministry is working with USAID on plans to build a bridge and a tunnel to ease traffic in the area.
USAID will submit the plan to Israeli authorities for approval, Ghneim told Ma'an.
Commuters to Ramallah from Jerusalem and the southern cities of the West Bank face lengthy traffic jams due to poor infrastructure. Traffic is also held up by an Israeli military checkpoint at Qalandia, between Jerusalem and Ramallah.
The minister of public works, Maher Ghneim, said Thursday that his ministry is working with USAID on plans to build a bridge and a tunnel to ease traffic in the area.
USAID will submit the plan to Israeli authorities for approval, Ghneim told Ma'an.
Commuters to Ramallah from Jerusalem and the southern cities of the West Bank face lengthy traffic jams due to poor infrastructure. Traffic is also held up by an Israeli military checkpoint at Qalandia, between Jerusalem and Ramallah.
24 apr 2013
Khudari: Gaza harbor project to be tabled with Erdogan
MP Jamal Al-Khudari has said that the visit to Gaza by Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan would be an opportunity to discuss with him the project of upgrading the Gaza harbor.
He told Quds Press on Wednesday that Arab and Islamic parties had promised to upgrade the Gaza harbor to enable it work as an important import-export port for the coastal enclave.
Khudari, who is the head of the popular committee against the siege, said that the committee was proposing the operation of Gaza harbor as a commercial port with the participation of Turkey.
He explained that Turkey would supervise the harbor and all import and export traffic would be via a Turkish port, which would mean an end to the sea blockade on the Strip.
Khudari said that the committee hoped that such a proposal would end Israel’s excuses for refusing to let goods in and out of Gaza through its harbor over security fears.
The MP said that the project would go into effect as soon as it was approved, adding that it would be tabled with Erdogan on his visit to Gaza.
Erdogan announced his intention to visit Gaza in May to help break the siege imposed by Israel on the Strip after a visit to the USA in mid May.
The 48,000 square meters harbor is 970 meters in depth and is currently only used by fishermen who are denied fishing in an area exceeding three nautical miles off the coast by the Israeli occupation authorities.
He told Quds Press on Wednesday that Arab and Islamic parties had promised to upgrade the Gaza harbor to enable it work as an important import-export port for the coastal enclave.
Khudari, who is the head of the popular committee against the siege, said that the committee was proposing the operation of Gaza harbor as a commercial port with the participation of Turkey.
He explained that Turkey would supervise the harbor and all import and export traffic would be via a Turkish port, which would mean an end to the sea blockade on the Strip.
Khudari said that the committee hoped that such a proposal would end Israel’s excuses for refusing to let goods in and out of Gaza through its harbor over security fears.
The MP said that the project would go into effect as soon as it was approved, adding that it would be tabled with Erdogan on his visit to Gaza.
Erdogan announced his intention to visit Gaza in May to help break the siege imposed by Israel on the Strip after a visit to the USA in mid May.
The 48,000 square meters harbor is 970 meters in depth and is currently only used by fishermen who are denied fishing in an area exceeding three nautical miles off the coast by the Israeli occupation authorities.
21 apr 2013
Khudari: Arab, Islamic promises to finance rehabilitation of Gaza harbor
Dr. Jamal Al-Khudari, the head of the anti-siege committee in Gaza, has said that Arab and Islamic parties had promised to finance the rehabilitation of Gaza sea harbor.
He said in a press release on Sunday that the process would allow the functioning of the harbor as a commercial one to be operated under supervision of Turkey as his committee had proposed in the event its proposal was accepted.
Khudari, an independent MP, hoped that Turkey would prioritize this proposal as part of its conditions in order to restore normal relations with Israel.
He said that opening a commercial sea harbor is one of the main conditions for lifting the siege on Gaza.
The MP said that his committee would continue to expose Israel’s violations regarding the Gaza blockade.
The committee had proposed opening a sea route between Gaza and Turkey via which goods could be imported and exported between Gaza and the rest of the world.
He said in a press release on Sunday that the process would allow the functioning of the harbor as a commercial one to be operated under supervision of Turkey as his committee had proposed in the event its proposal was accepted.
Khudari, an independent MP, hoped that Turkey would prioritize this proposal as part of its conditions in order to restore normal relations with Israel.
He said that opening a commercial sea harbor is one of the main conditions for lifting the siege on Gaza.
The MP said that his committee would continue to expose Israel’s violations regarding the Gaza blockade.
The committee had proposed opening a sea route between Gaza and Turkey via which goods could be imported and exported between Gaza and the rest of the world.
Qatar donates $11 million to build Gaza law courts
Qatar announced Sunday that it will donate $11 million to Hamas to build new law courts in the Gaza Strip.
Crown Prince of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, made the announcement during a meeting with Gaza premier Ismail Haniyeh in Doha.
The two leaders discussed several issues, including efforts by Islamic countries to counter threats to the holy city of Jerusalem. Haniyeh praised the Emir of Qatar for pledging funds for Jerusalem and applauded Qatar's efforts to reconstruct the war-torn coastal territory.
Haniyeh said he would welcome a special Arab League summit in Cairo to address Palestinian unity talks.
Last year, Qatar pledged $400 million in reconstruction funds to the Gaza Strip, and construction material for the projects entered Gaza in late December, breaking a six-year ban enforced by Egypt and Israel.
Crown Prince of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, made the announcement during a meeting with Gaza premier Ismail Haniyeh in Doha.
The two leaders discussed several issues, including efforts by Islamic countries to counter threats to the holy city of Jerusalem. Haniyeh praised the Emir of Qatar for pledging funds for Jerusalem and applauded Qatar's efforts to reconstruct the war-torn coastal territory.
Haniyeh said he would welcome a special Arab League summit in Cairo to address Palestinian unity talks.
Last year, Qatar pledged $400 million in reconstruction funds to the Gaza Strip, and construction material for the projects entered Gaza in late December, breaking a six-year ban enforced by Egypt and Israel.
12 apr 2013
The Cornerstone of the Palestinian Museum Laid
By Diana Atallah/ The Media Line
From a building overlooking a small garden in this West Bank city, employees are working on the Palestinian Museum -- the first large-scale contemporary Palestinian museum. The cornerstone is finally being laid, some 15-years after the project was first proposed.
The original idea came from the 50th anniversary of what Palestinians call "Nakba" -- the Disaster -- the phrase that refers to the birth of the modern state of Israel in 1948, and the displacement of some 700,000 Palestinians.
"Initially, everyone wanted to make this museum in Jerusalem but we knew that the Israelis would make this impossible," Omar Kattan, head of Palestinian Museum's work team, told The Media Line. "After things became possible again in terms of the political situation, we re-opened this file and commissioned the study and developed a framework to do it."
"We came up with a unique concept that is basically a museum without a collection, and a museum that is based on a network rather than a building," Kattan said.
"The idea [evolved] from the "Memory Museum of the Nakba" to a museum that will use the tools of history to come out with a modern dialogue," Jack Persekian, the director and curator of the Palestinian Museum told The Media Line. "We're moving forward from representing an incident that happened in a certain time to representing the Palestinians wherever they are."
"We are very keen on being a source of inspiration, provocation sometimes and questioning subjects and themes we believe are very important for our society and history," Kattan added.
Director Persekian promised that "We will not censor any item or art or history because we disagree with it or it says something against us," he told The Media Line. He asserts that "the role of art is to create a dialogue around national concerns.
The museum's creators hope the institution will also be a way of teaching young Palestinians about their heritage. Some of the Palestinians living in the diaspora are third-generation and many have little connection to "Palestine" -- a fact the museum hopes to change.
The exhibits will include some of the Palestinian nationalistic symbols such as keys that symbolize homes that Israel destroyed or from which Arab families fled. Keys and title deeds are meant to refer to the displacement of people and the right of return claimed by Palestinians. Visual and written material, including photos and other forms of art, will offer a variety of Palestinian stories the curators say will be relevant to Palestinians all over the world.
Unlike the Rockefeller Museum in east Jerusalem (formerly known as the Palestine Archaeological Museum) that is a major repository of archaeological crafts, the Palestine Museum is "not specialized in archaeology," According to Persekian. "We are focusing on the contemporary side that we think is needed."
Director Persekian explained that the "contemporary side" he speaks of will be strong on politics, asserting that Palestinian daily life that includes barriers, checkpoints and permits created a need for a global aspect. "The Israeli control over the Palestinians' lands made Palestinians more disconnected from each other. The connection is difficult between Palestinians in Israel; Palestinians in Jerusalem; refugees; Palestinians in the West Bank; and Palestinians in the diaspora. "
"Our situations made us try to always challenge the barriers, and overcome the physical obstacles. A part of the museum will be transitional. We will also exhibit with partners from across the region and the world," Persekian told The Media Line. We want to reach out to global audiences."
The museum will start collecting items that will be featured in its permanent collection although funds are not yet available. The museum will host temporary exhibits, some of which are already planned. One of them will show cherished items that were saved for long periods of time by their owners. The producers are reaching out to Palestinians and inviting them to share their personal experiences. "A Palestinian man who left to the United States left the coffee residue in his coffee cups. Some people used to know their forecast by reading the marks left by coffee grinds in their coffee cups. This man left the residue untouched for more than 20 years representing the luck of his family," said Persekian.
He also said, "It wasn't a coincidence that the museum will be built in the town of Birzeit, near Ramallah, as the town hosts one of the most prominent Palestinian universities. Education and learning will be an important part of designing the projects at the museum," Persekian added.
The producers hope that the Palestinian Museum will be a platform that will encourage free conversation about the history and legacy of the Palestinian people. "There is a difficulty of connection between Palestinians so we also hope it will be a step toward an open dialogue between all Palestinians, wherever they are," according to the planners.
"In this time of less hope for Palestinians, building a museum shows that Palestinians are looking at the past in order to celebrate the future," Khaled Horani, Arts Director of the International Academy of Art Palestine.
The Palestinian Museum chose a conversation bar as its logo, "because the story of the human race is the story of conversation," a video on the museum website says, adding that the museum will be virtual, too.
In the streets of Ramallah, 23-year-old accountant Dina Basem told The Media Line that she appreciates the idea. "Now we have more interesting places to bring our foreign visitors," Basem said.
From a building overlooking a small garden in this West Bank city, employees are working on the Palestinian Museum -- the first large-scale contemporary Palestinian museum. The cornerstone is finally being laid, some 15-years after the project was first proposed.
The original idea came from the 50th anniversary of what Palestinians call "Nakba" -- the Disaster -- the phrase that refers to the birth of the modern state of Israel in 1948, and the displacement of some 700,000 Palestinians.
"Initially, everyone wanted to make this museum in Jerusalem but we knew that the Israelis would make this impossible," Omar Kattan, head of Palestinian Museum's work team, told The Media Line. "After things became possible again in terms of the political situation, we re-opened this file and commissioned the study and developed a framework to do it."
"We came up with a unique concept that is basically a museum without a collection, and a museum that is based on a network rather than a building," Kattan said.
"The idea [evolved] from the "Memory Museum of the Nakba" to a museum that will use the tools of history to come out with a modern dialogue," Jack Persekian, the director and curator of the Palestinian Museum told The Media Line. "We're moving forward from representing an incident that happened in a certain time to representing the Palestinians wherever they are."
"We are very keen on being a source of inspiration, provocation sometimes and questioning subjects and themes we believe are very important for our society and history," Kattan added.
Director Persekian promised that "We will not censor any item or art or history because we disagree with it or it says something against us," he told The Media Line. He asserts that "the role of art is to create a dialogue around national concerns.
The museum's creators hope the institution will also be a way of teaching young Palestinians about their heritage. Some of the Palestinians living in the diaspora are third-generation and many have little connection to "Palestine" -- a fact the museum hopes to change.
The exhibits will include some of the Palestinian nationalistic symbols such as keys that symbolize homes that Israel destroyed or from which Arab families fled. Keys and title deeds are meant to refer to the displacement of people and the right of return claimed by Palestinians. Visual and written material, including photos and other forms of art, will offer a variety of Palestinian stories the curators say will be relevant to Palestinians all over the world.
Unlike the Rockefeller Museum in east Jerusalem (formerly known as the Palestine Archaeological Museum) that is a major repository of archaeological crafts, the Palestine Museum is "not specialized in archaeology," According to Persekian. "We are focusing on the contemporary side that we think is needed."
Director Persekian explained that the "contemporary side" he speaks of will be strong on politics, asserting that Palestinian daily life that includes barriers, checkpoints and permits created a need for a global aspect. "The Israeli control over the Palestinians' lands made Palestinians more disconnected from each other. The connection is difficult between Palestinians in Israel; Palestinians in Jerusalem; refugees; Palestinians in the West Bank; and Palestinians in the diaspora. "
"Our situations made us try to always challenge the barriers, and overcome the physical obstacles. A part of the museum will be transitional. We will also exhibit with partners from across the region and the world," Persekian told The Media Line. We want to reach out to global audiences."
The museum will start collecting items that will be featured in its permanent collection although funds are not yet available. The museum will host temporary exhibits, some of which are already planned. One of them will show cherished items that were saved for long periods of time by their owners. The producers are reaching out to Palestinians and inviting them to share their personal experiences. "A Palestinian man who left to the United States left the coffee residue in his coffee cups. Some people used to know their forecast by reading the marks left by coffee grinds in their coffee cups. This man left the residue untouched for more than 20 years representing the luck of his family," said Persekian.
He also said, "It wasn't a coincidence that the museum will be built in the town of Birzeit, near Ramallah, as the town hosts one of the most prominent Palestinian universities. Education and learning will be an important part of designing the projects at the museum," Persekian added.
The producers hope that the Palestinian Museum will be a platform that will encourage free conversation about the history and legacy of the Palestinian people. "There is a difficulty of connection between Palestinians so we also hope it will be a step toward an open dialogue between all Palestinians, wherever they are," according to the planners.
"In this time of less hope for Palestinians, building a museum shows that Palestinians are looking at the past in order to celebrate the future," Khaled Horani, Arts Director of the International Academy of Art Palestine.
The Palestinian Museum chose a conversation bar as its logo, "because the story of the human race is the story of conversation," a video on the museum website says, adding that the museum will be virtual, too.
In the streets of Ramallah, 23-year-old accountant Dina Basem told The Media Line that she appreciates the idea. "Now we have more interesting places to bring our foreign visitors," Basem said.
26 mar 2013
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Welfare Association to Lay Corner Stone of Palestinian Museum
The welfare association announced Tuesday its plan to lay the corner stone of the Palestinian museum in Birzait in April 11, under the auspices of President Mahmoud Abbas, according to Omar Al-Qattan, head of Palestinian museum’s work team.
He said that this project, considered the first of its kind in Palestine and one of the cooperation’s most important projects, is expected to be built on an area of 40 dunums near Birzait University. He added that the Palestinian Museum will be a unique cultural project and is being |
developed to become the primary and most authoritative source of knowledge and new thinking about Palestinian history, culture and contemporary life, throughout researches, educational tours and exhibitions.
In addition to catering to the population in the West Bank, this museum will also serve a network of branches and associated centers, sharing with them information, research and touring exhibitions, as well as human resources and expertise, said Qattan.
The Palestinian Museum will be constructed in 2 phases; with the first phase of 3000 square meters to be completed by 2014, in which the museum will include showrooms, classrooms, gardens, offices and public facilities. The second phase will be of 6000 square meters to accommodate larger hall for temporary exhibitions, indoor theater, additional classrooms and a library and expected to be completed within ten years.
In addition to catering to the population in the West Bank, this museum will also serve a network of branches and associated centers, sharing with them information, research and touring exhibitions, as well as human resources and expertise, said Qattan.
The Palestinian Museum will be constructed in 2 phases; with the first phase of 3000 square meters to be completed by 2014, in which the museum will include showrooms, classrooms, gardens, offices and public facilities. The second phase will be of 6000 square meters to accommodate larger hall for temporary exhibitions, indoor theater, additional classrooms and a library and expected to be completed within ten years.
22 mar 2013
Heavy construction equipment enters Gaza for the first time
Minister of Public Works and Housing Yousef Subhi al-Ghareez declared the entry of heavy construction equipment to Gaza through Rafah crossing for the first time, pointing out that this equipment came within the Qatar-fund reconstruction operations in the strip.
The Minister thanked both Qatar and Egypt for their efforts in getting the construction machinery and equipment into the Gaza Strip via the Rafah crossing.
The equipment entry into Gaza came within the cooperation protocol signed in Egypt last January for bringing building materials, necessary machinery and equipment for the implementation of the Qatari projects, the minister explained in a statement on Thursday.
Al-Ghareez added that this equipment will contribute significantly to the Qatar-fund reconstruction operations in the Gaza strip.
Qatar has pledged a grant worth $407 million to finance reconstruction projects in the Gaza Strip.
The Minister thanked both Qatar and Egypt for their efforts in getting the construction machinery and equipment into the Gaza Strip via the Rafah crossing.
The equipment entry into Gaza came within the cooperation protocol signed in Egypt last January for bringing building materials, necessary machinery and equipment for the implementation of the Qatari projects, the minister explained in a statement on Thursday.
Al-Ghareez added that this equipment will contribute significantly to the Qatar-fund reconstruction operations in the Gaza strip.
Qatar has pledged a grant worth $407 million to finance reconstruction projects in the Gaza Strip.
11 feb 2013
Israel Permits Materials from Turkey into Gaza for Hospital
Israel has authorized the passage of Turkish trucks through Gaza carrying materials for the construction of the Turkish-Palestine Friendship Hospital, the most symbolic Turkish humanitarian assistance to date for the people of Palestine.
The hospital’s inauguration is expected to bring Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the Gaza Strip within the year.
The Israeli authorization came Feb. 4 following a nearly two-month long study of a list provided by Turkey on materials to be transported into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom border crossing, a move the Israeli government described as a gesture of goodwill made toward Turkey, the Hürriyet Daily News has learned.
With 150 beds the hospital will be the biggest one in Gaza and Ramallah once completed, but requires more technical work and construction materials for it to be finished. Financed by the Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA) and constructed by the Aker Construction Company, the hospital will become operational within the year. The inauguration of the hospital will likely serve as a chance for Erdogan to realize his long-planned visit to Gaza.
Permission for passage came as part of Israel’s decision to soften its embargo over Gaza after terminating military operations into the enclave last fall and starting a fresh round of talks between Israelis and Palestinians over a gradual lifting of sanctions under Egyptian mediation.
The importance of the Israeli decision comes from the very fact that lifting the siege on Gaza constitutes Turkey’s third condition to Israel for normalizing relations, following demands the Israeli government officially apologize and pay compensation to the families of the Mavi Marmara flotilla victims. Israel has been signaling it will do more in terms of easing life conditions of the more than 1.5 million Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip, but has also expressed security concerns.
Turkish officials, however, view Israel allowing Turkish trucks into Gaza as a humanitarian move and claim it should not be considered a political gesture. Yet given the fact that Israel is set to have a new government within the weeks following January elections, diplomatic sources recalled the new government could start a new process and that last week’s decision could play a role in this sense.
“Although I do not want to seem too optimistic over reconciliation between the two countries, I see a window of opportunity in light of the election results,” diplomatic sources told the Daily News.
Although election results certainly weakened the hands of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it is likely he will still be able to keep his position in the new term albeit with different coalition partners, most likely Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennet. The fact that he will have to establish a wide-based government seems to be a positive development for Ankara, who believes it would create more sound deliberations in Israel on ties with Turkey. “Once the government is made up, relations with Turkey will surely come before them as an issue,” sources stressed.
Turkey and Israel have worked on a draft text aimed at overcoming the impasse on ties, but have failed in both major attempts.
With the establishment of the new Israeli government many believe the United States will increase its pressure on both sides to resolve bilateral problems and re-launch dialogue. The most urgent issue the two countries could seek ways to cooperate in is the turmoil in Syria, with which both countries share borders.
Apart from regional effects, bilateral problems between Turkey and Israel also have implications in the international arena. Turkey recently acted against Israel’s membership to the board of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), despite strong pressure from its Western allies. The U.S. and a number of European countries criticized the Turkish veto on Israel. Turkey also limited Israeli participation in NATO activity. Francis Ricciardone, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey, brought up the Turkey-Israel rift during his meeting with Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Feridun Sinirlioglu last week.
The hospital’s inauguration is expected to bring Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the Gaza Strip within the year.
The Israeli authorization came Feb. 4 following a nearly two-month long study of a list provided by Turkey on materials to be transported into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom border crossing, a move the Israeli government described as a gesture of goodwill made toward Turkey, the Hürriyet Daily News has learned.
With 150 beds the hospital will be the biggest one in Gaza and Ramallah once completed, but requires more technical work and construction materials for it to be finished. Financed by the Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA) and constructed by the Aker Construction Company, the hospital will become operational within the year. The inauguration of the hospital will likely serve as a chance for Erdogan to realize his long-planned visit to Gaza.
Permission for passage came as part of Israel’s decision to soften its embargo over Gaza after terminating military operations into the enclave last fall and starting a fresh round of talks between Israelis and Palestinians over a gradual lifting of sanctions under Egyptian mediation.
The importance of the Israeli decision comes from the very fact that lifting the siege on Gaza constitutes Turkey’s third condition to Israel for normalizing relations, following demands the Israeli government officially apologize and pay compensation to the families of the Mavi Marmara flotilla victims. Israel has been signaling it will do more in terms of easing life conditions of the more than 1.5 million Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip, but has also expressed security concerns.
Turkish officials, however, view Israel allowing Turkish trucks into Gaza as a humanitarian move and claim it should not be considered a political gesture. Yet given the fact that Israel is set to have a new government within the weeks following January elections, diplomatic sources recalled the new government could start a new process and that last week’s decision could play a role in this sense.
“Although I do not want to seem too optimistic over reconciliation between the two countries, I see a window of opportunity in light of the election results,” diplomatic sources told the Daily News.
Although election results certainly weakened the hands of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, it is likely he will still be able to keep his position in the new term albeit with different coalition partners, most likely Yair Lapid and Naftali Bennet. The fact that he will have to establish a wide-based government seems to be a positive development for Ankara, who believes it would create more sound deliberations in Israel on ties with Turkey. “Once the government is made up, relations with Turkey will surely come before them as an issue,” sources stressed.
Turkey and Israel have worked on a draft text aimed at overcoming the impasse on ties, but have failed in both major attempts.
With the establishment of the new Israeli government many believe the United States will increase its pressure on both sides to resolve bilateral problems and re-launch dialogue. The most urgent issue the two countries could seek ways to cooperate in is the turmoil in Syria, with which both countries share borders.
Apart from regional effects, bilateral problems between Turkey and Israel also have implications in the international arena. Turkey recently acted against Israel’s membership to the board of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), despite strong pressure from its Western allies. The U.S. and a number of European countries criticized the Turkish veto on Israel. Turkey also limited Israeli participation in NATO activity. Francis Ricciardone, the U.S. ambassador to Turkey, brought up the Turkey-Israel rift during his meeting with Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Feridun Sinirlioglu last week.
20 jan 2013
Qatari Ambassador calls on Arab states to participate in reconstructing Gaza
Head of the Qatari Committee for the Reconstruction of Gaza Mohammed Al-Emadi called on Arab states to adopt reconstruction projects in the Gaza strip, stressing that the time has come to support the steadfastness of the Gazan people.
Al-Emadi said during his meeting with the delegation of victims of the Israeli aggression at the Sheraton Hotel in the Qatari capital city of Doha that "the current time is appropriate for building infrastructure projects, and various projects in the Gaza Strip", urging the Arab states to work for the comfort of the residents of the Gaza Strip because the Israeli occupation aims at harassing Gaza to displace its people.
"We must help the people to stay in their land. For example the life of people living in the Diaspora is not like those who live in Palestine. We must provide them with a decent life so they can live with dignity," he said to Ray On line's reporter.
The ambassador called on the Palestinian government to provide passports for those who live inside the Palestinian refugee camps in the Diaspora, and to take the initiative to break the siege so that people feel that it is not in prison.
Regarding the delegation's visit, the Ambassador stressed that the purpose behind the delegation's visit is to entertain the children of Gaza.
"We want people to know that Gaza is under siege, and we want to see the Arab states to follow the same step to alleviate the pressure on all the people of the Gaza Strip," he added.
He said that the Emir Sheikh Hamad's visit to Gaza was to break the siege on Gaza and to reconstruct the Gaza strip, stressing that breaking the siege on the people of Gaza is more important than implementing rebuilding projects.
Concerning the support of Gaza, he said that we have a lot of programs implemented in the Gaza Strip, where we provided the housing for 80 families of the victims of the 2008 aggression and we adopt the children of Palestinian martyrs.
Al-Emadi said during his meeting with the delegation of victims of the Israeli aggression at the Sheraton Hotel in the Qatari capital city of Doha that "the current time is appropriate for building infrastructure projects, and various projects in the Gaza Strip", urging the Arab states to work for the comfort of the residents of the Gaza Strip because the Israeli occupation aims at harassing Gaza to displace its people.
"We must help the people to stay in their land. For example the life of people living in the Diaspora is not like those who live in Palestine. We must provide them with a decent life so they can live with dignity," he said to Ray On line's reporter.
The ambassador called on the Palestinian government to provide passports for those who live inside the Palestinian refugee camps in the Diaspora, and to take the initiative to break the siege so that people feel that it is not in prison.
Regarding the delegation's visit, the Ambassador stressed that the purpose behind the delegation's visit is to entertain the children of Gaza.
"We want people to know that Gaza is under siege, and we want to see the Arab states to follow the same step to alleviate the pressure on all the people of the Gaza Strip," he added.
He said that the Emir Sheikh Hamad's visit to Gaza was to break the siege on Gaza and to reconstruct the Gaza strip, stressing that breaking the siege on the people of Gaza is more important than implementing rebuilding projects.
Concerning the support of Gaza, he said that we have a lot of programs implemented in the Gaza Strip, where we provided the housing for 80 families of the victims of the 2008 aggression and we adopt the children of Palestinian martyrs.
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