GCC welcomes Canada, Malta and Portugal's moves to recognize Palestine

The Gulf Co-operation Council has welcomed the announcements by Canada, Malta and Portugal of their plans to recognise Palestine. Prime Ministers Mark Carney of Canada, Robert Abela of Malta and Luis Montenegro of Portugal said their countries intennded to recognise Palestinian statehood in September. “This step reflects the growing international support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people – foremost among them, their right to establish an independent state,” said GCC Secretary General Jassem Al Budaiwi. He urged all countries that have not yet recognised Palestine to follow suit and take similar steps towards “advancing justice, peace and stability in the region”.