More countries recognize Palestine State
(VOVWORLD) -Britain, Canada, Australia and Portugal all recognized a Palestinian State on Sunday, just one day before the international conference on the two-state solution for Palestine and Israel in New York City, marking an important step forward in efforts to promote Middle East peace.
 Displaced Palestinians flee southward in the central Gaza Strip, September 21, 2025. Photo: REUTERS/Dawoud Abu Alkas |
"Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution, the United Kingdom formally recognizes the State of Palestine," said Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The statement is viewed as a historic change in British foreign policy in decades.
Canada now officially recognizes the State of Palestine and is doing so with international partners to preserve the prospect of a two-state solution, according to a statement from Prime Minister Mark Carney's office released Sunday morning. The Office added that Canada offers its partnership in "building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel."
Australia has formally recognized Palestine as a sovereign state. The move was previewed in August but became official on Sunday in a joint statement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong. It says Australia "recognizes the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own".
More than 140 countries have to date officially recognized the State of Palestine. More countries will make similar decisions at the New York conference on Monday.