RAMALLAH, March 30 (Xinhua) -- Palestinians on Monday marked the 44th anniversary of Land Day with symbolic events amid the lockdown imposed to fight the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.
During this year's celebrations, the annual marches were replaced by raising the Palestinian flag on rooftops and balconies, in order to avoid gatherings with a growing number of COVID-19 cases.
Meanwhile, Palestinian factions and officials issued statements reiterating their commitment to the full national rights to self-determination and the fight against injustice.
Hanan Ashrawi, a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization's Executive Committee, said in a video message that Land Day is an opportunity to remind the world that Palestinians are still ready to defend their rights.
"The anniversary of Land Day is a sorrowful memory that reminds us of Israel's theft of our lands and killing of those who defended the lands ... It is also a reminder of how much we love Palestine," she said.
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Ishtaye said the main concern for the Palestinians is to consolidate their resilience and protect their resources in the face of Israeli settlement activities.
Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki also said in a statement that despite the current complicated global situation, Palestinians are committed to their right to self-determination.
