Norway Recognizes Palestine as a State: A Step Towards Middle East Peace

Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store announced that Norway will formally recognize Palestine as a state on May 28, aiming to contribute to peace in the Middle East. Several EU countries have also indicated similar plans, emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution.

Norway's prime minister says Norway is formally recognising Palestine as a state.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said on Wednesday, “There cannot be peace in the Middle East if there is no recognition.” Gahr Store said the Scandinavian country will recognise a Palestinian state as of May 28.

Several European Union countries have in the past weeks indicated that they plan to make the recognition, arguing a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region.

Norway which is not a member of the European Union but mirror its moves, has been an ardent supporter of a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.

“The terror has been committed by Hamas and militant groups who are not supporters of a two-state solution and the state of Israel,” the Norwegian government leader said.