The Palestinian ambassador to Germany, Laith Arafeh, has called on the German government in Berlin to recognize Palestine swiftly. „We hope that the German government will accelerate its efforts and join the majority of 143 states worldwide that have recognized Palestine as a legitimate member of the international community„, he told Table.Briefings. „We would like to see Germany play a more active political role“, Arafeh said. „In order not to lose relevance, it is therefore important that the German government adapts to the speed of events and recognizes the fact that after decades of occupation, Palestine has the right to independence – and the Palestinian people to live in freedom.“