Member of the PLO Executive Committee and Head of the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine, Dr. Ramzi Khouri, met with Dr. Hussein Hamayel, Governor of Jericho. The meeting was attended by committee member and representative to Europe Ameera Hanania, along with the committee’s Director of Public Relations and Media, Raed Hanania.
The discussion focused on strengthening cooperation between the local authorities and Christian institutions, improving church conditions, and promoting the preservation of Jericho’s Christian presence.
Dr. Khouri emphasized the importance of safeguarding Jericho’s Christian heritage, affirming the committee’s ongoing efforts to support churches and fulfill their needs across Palestine.
Governor Hamayel welcomed the delegation, praising the committee’s efforts in promoting religious and cultural pluralism in Palestine. He reiterated the governorate’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that preserves Jericho’s rich and diverse social fabric. The visiting delegation, in turn, expressed their appreciation for the governor’s dedicated service and commendable representation of the city.
The delegation continued its visit with a stop at the Greek Orthodox parish, where church representatives expressed gratitude for the committee’s presence, noting that such visits help strengthen the bond between the Church and the State and reinforce the authentic Christian presence in Jericho. “This visit reflects the leadership’s genuine concern for preserving religious diversity in Palestine,” one representative remarked.
The delegation also met with Father Bartholomeos, the parish priest of the Greek Orthodox Church, who welcomed the visit as a reflection of national partnership, saying “We are thankful for this honorable presence and grateful to know that our concerns are shared and that there is genuine support for the continuation of our spiritual and social mission.”
The delegation concluded the visit at the Latin Church of the Good Shepherd, where they were welcomed by Father Mario Hadchiti.
“This visit is a reminder that we are not alone,” said Father Hadchiti. “Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Presidential Committee and the leadership of Dr. Khouri, the Church’s role in society continues with strength and hope.”
