France Holds Back on Recognizing Palestine as a State

France's foreign minister stated that the conditions to officially recognize Palestine as a state are not yet met, contrary to several other European nations. Norway has recognized Palestine, and Ireland and Spain are expected to follow suit, aiming for peace and security in the region.

(Adds quotes) May 22 (Reuters) -

The conditions to officially recognise Palestine as a state have not yet been met, France's foreign minister said on Wednesday, after a group of other European states announced such a move

in the hope that this will help bring peace to the region. "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, adding:

"France does not consider that the conditions have yet been met for this decision to have a real impact on this process". Norway will recognise an independent Palestinian state, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere said on Wednesday while sources told Reuters Ireland and Spain would also announce the recognition.