Washington, D.C., January 26 -- ATFP expressed satisfaction today with the Palestinian people's successful conducting of their elections for the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC.) An estimated 78% of registered Palestinian voters exercised their democratic right to vote yesterday in an orderly and peaceful manner.

ATFP reiterates that the only way for the Palestinians to achieve statehood on Palestinian lands occupied since 1967 is through the exercise of non-violence and a process of political negotiation. Commenting from Palestine, where he is observing the Palestinian elections as a monitor, ATFP president Ziad Asali said: "In spite of the challenging circumstances of a 38-year Israeli occupation, the Palestinian people demonstrated once again their democratic nature by conducting free, fair and peaceful elections." He added: "We urge whatever new Palestinian government is formed to engage in a process of peaceful political negotiation to achieve Palestinian statehood."