The Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs in Palestine and the Municipality of Bethlehem welcomed His Excellency Usame Zukorlić, Minister of State for Reconciliation and Regional Cooperation of the Republic of Serbia, during an official visit to the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
Coordinated with the Office of the President and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, the visit began with a formal reception at al-Amal Roundabout. Attending on behalf of the Committee were Dr. Samir Hazboun, Committee member; Mr. Jihad Khair, Director of the Bethlehem Office; and Mr. Raed Hanania, Director of Public Relations and Media. Mayor of Bethlehem, Mr. Maher Qanawati, was also present to receive the visiting delegation.
Minister Zukorlić was accompanied on a guided tour through Bethlehem’s historic and religious landmarks, including Star Street – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and the Old City. The tour highlighted the city’s deep Christian heritage and its significance as a spiritual and cultural center.
The delegation also visited the Mosque of Omar Ibn Al-Khattab, underscoring the city’s longstanding tradition of interfaith harmony and mutual respect among religious communities. This was followed by a visit to the Church of the Nativity, where the Minister was welcomed by His Eminence Metropolitan Benedictos, along with clergy from the Latin and Armenian Churches. Church leaders expressed appreciation for the importance of the visit.
Father Issa Thaljieh provided a comprehensive overview of the church’s historical and religious significance as one of Christianity’s holiest pilgrimage sites.
The Minister and his delegation also toured the Palestinian Narrative Museum (al-Riwaya Museum) at the Peace Center, where they viewed exhibits presenting the national story of the Palestinian people and documenting their indigenous presence as an integral part of Palestine’s cultural and historical identity.
The visit concluded with an official meeting involving the heads of local churches, members of the Higher Presidential Committee for Church Affairs, and the Mayor of Bethlehem. Discussions focused on the urgent need to protect Christian holy sites, strengthen the resilience of the Christian presence in Palestine, and promote interreligious dialogue and cooperation.
