LISBON ( The COW News Digital) Portugal has officially announced its decision to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state, joining a growing list of countries including the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, and Belgium that have recently expressed their support for Palestinian statehood.
According to a statement from the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the formal recognition will be announced on September 21. This move comes ahead of the United Nations General Assembly session later this month, where several countries are expected to officially recognize Palestine as a state.
Portugal’s Foreign Minister, during a recent visit to the United Kingdom, had indicated that the government was actively considering the recognition of a Palestinian state. The ministry’s latest announcement confirms the country’s stance and signals a significant diplomatic step in support of Palestinian aspirations for sovereignty.
The decision reflects Portugal’s commitment to a two-state solution, a longstanding international framework for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By recognizing Palestine, Portugal joins the chorus of nations advocating for a peaceful resolution based on mutual recognition and coexistence.
International observers see this decision as part of a broader shift in global diplomacy, with more countries willing to formally support Palestine’s claim to statehood. The recognition is also expected to strengthen Palestine’s position in international forums and negotiations, particularly within the UN, where member states are set to discuss the ongoing conflict and pathways to peace.
Portugal’s announcement has been welcomed by Palestinian officials, who view such recognition as a crucial step toward legitimizing their struggle for independence and securing international support for their rights. Meanwhile, Israel has historically opposed unilateral recognitions of Palestinian statehood, arguing that such decisions should only follow direct peace negotiations.
With more countries including major European powers backing Palestine’s recognition, pressure is mounting on the international community to renew efforts toward a comprehensive peace process. Analysts believe that this wave of recognition could influence upcoming debates and votes in international organizations, possibly reshaping the diplomatic landscape of the Middle East.
Portugal’s recognition marks a symbolic yet powerful move, reinforcing the momentum toward wider international acceptance of Palestine as a sovereign state and reflecting the global call for a fair and lasting resolution to the decades-long conflict.
