VALLETTA (MALTA) (MNA/ITALPRESS) – Prime Minister Robert Abela is set to formally announce Malta’s recognition of the state of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Abela, attending the 80th session of the UNGA where more than 190 world leaders are meeting, had pledged earlier this year to take the step as part of Malta’s consistent support for a two-state solution. “This recognition reflects Malta’s longstanding position in favour of dialogue and peace in the Middle East,” a government statement said.
It added that while Malta is committed to Palestinian statehood, it continues to condemn the Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023, stressing the group “should have no role in the state of Palestine”. The government reiterated its appeal for the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas and urged a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Malta will join several other countries moving towards recognition, including the UK, France, Canada, Australia and Portugal. Spain, Ireland and Norway recognised Palestine last year.
Abela’s announcement comes after delays earlier this year, when a planned declaration was postponed following Israel’s attack on Iran. Ahead of his UNGA address, Abela is expected to hold a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders.
-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).
