Palestinian Organization for the Right of Return opens Beirut headquarters

Source: Daily Star, 23-12-2006
BEIRUT: The Palestinian Organization for the Right of Return, or FIRM, its Arabic acronym, opened its headquarters in Leb-anon on Friday in the presence of former Premier Salim Hoss who was the guest speaker. In a news conference held at the Press Federation headquarters in Ain al-Mreisseh on Friday, FIRM`s administrators described the organization as a non-governmental, cultural entity, whose activities encompass issues related to the Palestinian diaspora.
FIRM is dedicated to championing the Palestinian refugees` cause and their right of return to their homeland.
One of FIRM`s key goals is the creation of a lobby "that would make the voice of Palestinian refugees heard," according to a pamphlet distributed during the news conference.
In addition, FIRM aims - in coordination with local and international organizations and committees - to raise the level of awareness about the Palestinian cause within elite groups, through a multitude of interactive means such as conferences and workshops.
The organization`s founding statement, which was read by its secretary general, Ali Houwedi, said that the Palestinians` right to return to their country has become "threatened."
The statement added that plans for settling Palestinians and attempts to dissolve the Palestinian identity are all attempts to prevent Palestinians from reclaiming their most basic rights.
FIRM`s statement said the Palestinian refugees` right to return to their homeland is a core issue at the heart of the Arab-"Israeli" conflict.
"The organization sees that the institution of a pressure lobby will be very beneficial, at a time when `Israeli` occupation continues to deny Palestinians their rights," said Houweidi.
Houweidi also called on the Palestinian Liberation Organization, in addition to all other Palestinian factions, to adhere to the right of return, "as a natural and sacred right."
Speaking at the news conference, Hoss described the right of return as a "vital concern." Hoss added that the right of return "is the essence of the Palestinian cause."
"Therefore, UN Resolution 194, which gives the Palestinians the right to return to their homeland, should be the essential base for any motions that are to be undertaken toward peace," Hoss said.