Government sources said that diplomat Gilan Wahba Abdel Majeed, who currently heads the Palestinian mission in Ireland, will assume this new position, after Dublin’s decision last May to recognize the State of Palestine.
Diplomatic relations were officially established between Ireland and Palestine on September 29, 2024, and on October 17, the Palestinian government, headed by Muhammad Mustafa, officially informed Dublin of its intention to raise its diplomatic representation in Ireland from a mission to an embassy.
Upgrading the status of the Palestinian mission to a resident embassy means that the diplomatic mission will now enjoy all the privileges and immunities that apply under the Vienna Convention.
This change will allow employees to benefit from the full range of privileges and immunities under the Vienna Convention signed in 1961 that guarantees the protection of diplomats.
The Irish government had agreed for the first time to establish a Palestinian delegation in Dublin in late 1993, and in early 2011 the government then raised the level of the delegation to a Palestinian mission and the title of “General Delegate” to “Ambassador – Head of Mission.”
At the end of May, Ireland, Spain and Norway officially recognized the State of Palestine in a step aimed at advancing peace in the Middle East, and a week later Slovenia made the same decision.
This decision angered the Israeli authorities, as Foreign Minister Israel Katz strongly attacked the leaders of these countries on social media.
These countries have been among the most critical in Europe towards Israel since the start of the war in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.
Source: Agencies
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**Interview with Gilan Wahba Abdul Majeed, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Ireland**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Ambassador Wahba. Your role as the Ambassador of Palestine to Ireland has garnered attention, especially following Dublin’s recognition of the State of Palestine last May. How do you feel about this recognition and its impact on Palestinian representation in Ireland?
**Gilan Wahba Abdul Majeed:** Thank you for having me. The recognition by the Irish government is a momentous step for the Palestinian cause. It solidifies Ireland’s position as a supporter of our right to self-determination and empowers us to enhance diplomatic relations, foster dialogue, and raise awareness about the Palestinian situation here.
**Interviewer:** What are your main priorities now that you are in this distinguished role, especially in light of Ireland’s recognition?
**Gilan Wahba Abdul Majeed:** My main priority is to strengthen bilateral relationships between Palestine and Ireland. I aim to engage with various sectors, including governmental, cultural, and academic, to promote mutual understanding and cooperation. Additionally, I will work on advocating for Palestinian rights and raising awareness about our narrative and aspirations.
**Interviewer:** How have you found the response from the Irish government and the public regarding Palestinian issues since your appointment?
**Gilan Wahba Abdul Majeed:** The response has been encouraging. The Irish government has consistently shown support for the Palestinian cause. Moreover, there is significant public interest and solidarity with Palestine among the Irish population. This openness creates an environment conducive to dialogue and collaboration.
**Interviewer:** As we look ahead, what initiatives do you plan to introduce to promote Palestinian culture and identity in Ireland?
**Gilan Wahba Abdul Majeed:** I am looking to organize cultural events, exhibitions, and discussion panels that showcase Palestinian art, literature, and history. Creating platforms for the Palestinian voice is essential, not just to promote our national identity but also to foster connections through shared humanity and cultural exchange.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Ambassador Wahba. We look forward to seeing how your work continues to evolve and enhance the relationship between Palestine and Ireland.
**Gilan Wahba Abdul Majeed:** Thank you for the opportunity. I’m looking forward to making a meaningful impact here in Ireland and beyond.
