New member Palestine raises flag at UNESCO

PARIS -- Palestinians have raise their flag at the headquarters of the U.N. cultural agency in Paris, a symbolic boost in their push for an independent state.

Cheers rose alongside the red, black, white and green flag Tuesday during a ceremony held in the rain. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was among those present.

Palestine was admitted as a UNESCO member after an October vote that prompted the U.S. to cut off funds to the agency.

The Palestinians also are seeking full-fledged U.N. membership, but Washington has threatened to veto that move, saying a negotiated settlement with Israel should come first.

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