Palestinians assume chairmanship of largest bloc of developing nations at the UN

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas assumed the chairmanship of the largest bloc of countries at the United Nations on behalf of "the State of Palestine" on Tuesday in New York City.

The Palestinians are slated to serve as the leader of the bloc, known as the Group of 77, for the next year.

In a speech at the UN headquarters, Abbas called the task of leading the Group of 77 a great responsibility.

"I am pleased to take over today the chairmanship of the Group of 77 on behalf of the Palestinian people and the State of Palestine," he said, addressing the bloc. "It is a great responsibility that the State of Palestine will bear with complete humility, sincerity and dedication."

The Group of 77 is a consortium of 134 developing countries that often works together in the UN General Assembly. The body was originally founded in 1964 with 77 countries, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Thailand and India. Over the years, it has grown to include countries such as South Africa, Qatar, Cuba, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Singapore, and Angola, and currently represents some 80% of the world's population.

In October, the General Assembly voted to temporarily grant Palestine additional rights and privileges, allowing it to head the Group of 77.

While it serves as the leader of the body, Palestine will be able to cosponsor proposals and amendments, make statements, and raise procedural motions.

In October, both Israel and the United States expressed strong opposition to granting the Palestinians extra rights at the UN.

https://www.timesofisrael.com/palestinians-assume-chairmanship-of-largest-bloc-of-nations-at-the-un/