Portugal recognizes Palestine as state, adding to growing international support
Man holding a Palestinian flag (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Portugal has officially recognized the State of Palestine. Previously, the UK, Canada, and Australia had done the same, according to a statement by Portuguese Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel, reported by Portuguese media.
Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel officially recognized the State of Palestine on September 21 while in New York.
On the same day, the decision was also ratified by the UK, Canada, and Australia.
They took this step ahead of a conference scheduled for Monday, September 22.
As of this date, 147 countries have recognized Palestine as a state, accounting for 75 percent of all UN member states.
Canada recognizes Palestine
Canada became the first G7 country to formally recognize the independence of Palestine.
In his statement, Prime Minister Mark Carney noted that since 1947, the Canadian government’s policy has been to support the two-state solution to achieve lasting peace in the Middle East.
“Hamas has stolen from the Palestinian people, cheated them of their life and liberty, and can in no way dictate their future,” he said.
UK recognizes Palestine
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer released a video statement:
“It is in this context that Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel,” Starmer said.
Australia recognizes Palestine
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese posted a statement on X:
“The Commonwealth of Australia formally recognizes the independent and sovereign State of Palestine. In doing so, Australia recognizes the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own,” the statement read.
Albanese also emphasized that Hamas should play no role in Palestine.
Recognition of Palestine
According to UN General Assembly Resolution 1947, a two-state plan was proposed for the Middle East - Israel and Palestine. However, Palestinian groups were left without territory and began a campaign of terrorist attacks against Israel.
For a detailed analysis of why Western countries have started discussing the recognition of Palestine, read the article by RBC-Ukraine.
