Highlights:
- Portugal announces official recognition of Palestine as a state.
- The declaration will be made on Sunday, September 21, 2025, ahead of the UN high-level summit.
- The move follows similar decisions by Spain, Ireland, and Norway in 2024.
- Portugal’s recognition is expected to strengthen Europe’s stance on Palestine.
Portugal Confirms Recognition of Palestine
Portugal has officially decided to recognize Palestine as an independent state. According to the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the formal declaration will be made on Sunday, September 21, 2025.
The ministry stated that this announcement comes just before next week’s United Nations high-level summit, with the aim of building stronger international support for the Palestinian cause.
Foreign Minister’s Earlier Indication
The Country’s Foreign Minister, Paulo Rangel, had already hinted at this decision earlier in the week during his visit to the United Kingdom. On Friday (September 19), the ministry issued a formal statement, confirming that Portugal will now join the list of European nations recognizing Palestine.
Earlier Recognitions in Europe
This is not the first time European countries have taken such a step. Back in May 2024, Spain’s left-wing government, along with Ireland and Norway, officially recognized Palestine as a state. At that time, Spain also urged other European Union (EU) nations to take the same path.
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However, Portugal remained cautious and did not immediately follow. Now, with this official announcement, Portugal is changing its position and moving closer to other supportive EU countries.
EU Countries Supporting Palestine
So far, only a few of the 27 EU member states have recognized Palestine. These include Sweden, Cyprus, and several former communist states. Analysts believe that Portugal’s decision will further clarify Europe’s growing stance in favour of Palestine.
More Countries Expected to Follow
This Country’s recognition may only be the beginning. Reports suggest that during next week’s UN General Assembly session, more countries are preparing to extend recognition to Palestine. These include the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Belgium, and Luxembourg.
This collective move is expected to send a strong message of international support to the Palestinian people.
Source: Aljazeera
