| Author (Person) | Rettman, Andrew |
|---|---|
| Series Title | EUObserver |
| Series Details | 03.10.14 |
| Publication Date | 03/10/2014 |
| Content Type | News |
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EUObserver reported that the new left-wing government in Sweden promised on the 3 October 2014 to recognise Palestine, amid harsh EU criticism of Israel’s latest settlement expansion. The Prime Minister, Stefan Lofven, made the pledge at his inuaguration speech in parliament. However, he did not state exactly when this would happen. The Local.se reported that Palestinians in Sweden welcomed the announcement, but there was strong criticism from Jewish groups. Israel announced it would summon Sweden's ambassador. On 13 October 2014, the House of Commons approved a non-binding resolution calling for the United Kingdom to recognise Palestine. It passed by 274 to 12 in the 650-seat chamber. The Swedish Foreign Affairs minister, Margot Wallstrom, confirmed on 29 October 2014 that the government had taken the decision to officially recognise Palestine as a sovereign state. Sweden recognised the State of Palestine on the 30 October 2014. The Government said it considered that the international law criteria for the recognition of Palestine had been satisfied. Sweden hoped that its decision would facilitate a peace agreement by making the parties less unequal, supporting the moderate Palestinian forces and contributing to hope at a time when tensions were increasing and no peace talks were taking place. The UN General Assembly approved the recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state in 2012 but the European Union and most EU countries had yet to give official recognition. |
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| Source Link | http://euobserver.com/foreign/125889 |
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| Countries / Regions | Europe, Middle East, Sweden |
