Three European Countries Admittedly Palestine, PM Mustafa: May Encouraging Other Countries To Take Brave Steps

Spanish Foreign Minister Albares met with Palestinian Prime Minister Mustafa. (Twitter/@jmalbares)

JAKARTA - Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa said on Sunday that Spain, Ireland and Norway's recognition of the Palestinian state would encourage other European countries to do the same.

Speaking from Brussels, Belgium to attend a meeting with international donors, PM Mustafa said he was grateful that the three European countries had effectively joined 143 other countries, supporting Palestinian efforts to become full members of the United Nations in a resolution in early May.

"We clearly want every country in Europe to do the same," he said at a press conference in Brussels with Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.

"So, once again hopefully this will be a source of encouragement for these countries to take the necessary bold steps," he continued.

Middle Eastern conflict has raised differences of opinion in the European Union. Several EU diplomats say this is not the right time to recognize a Palestinian state.

However, PM Mustafa said the current acknowledgment is very important to keep the peace process going.

PM Mustafa also said he would explain to international partners the three priorities of his authority, support the Gazan people, including restoring basic services, building state institutions and stabilizing financial situations.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Albares said other European countries were considering this, including Slovenia, which had started the process.

"I convey Spain's strong commitment to a two-state solution and regional peace. That is why Spain will recognize the Palestinian State on Tuesday," Foreign Minister Albares tweeted on social media X.

Last week, Spain, Ireland, and Norway said they would officially recognize the Palestinian state on Tuesday to help stop Israeli attacks on Gaza following the Hamas attack on October 7, reviving stalled peace negotiations a decade ago.

On the other hand, Israel called the Palestinian state recognition plan a "gift for terrorism", criticizing strongly by withdrawing its ambassadors from Ireland and Norway last week.