France Stresses Timing Over Symbolism in Palestinian State Recognition

France's foreign minister emphasized that recognizing Palestine is not merely symbolic but a strategic diplomatic tool for achieving peaceful coexistence between two states. The decision must be timed appropriately, not dictated by political positioning.

Officially recognising the Palestinian state is not a taboo for France, but any such decision must come at the right time and is not just a matter of political positioning, France's foreign minister said on Wednesday.

"This is not just a symbolic issue or a question of political positioning, but a diplomatic tool in the service of the solution of two States living side by side in peace and security", Stephane Sejourne said in a statement.