Spain may recognize the Palestinian Autonomy as a state. It is reported by El Pais with reference to the head of the Spanish Foreign Ministry José García-Margallo y Marfil.
Speaking in the Parliament, the minister said that the decision on recognition would be made if Madrid made sure that it would contribute to the political dialogue between Palestine and Israel, or if it realized that there was no progress in the negotiations. Thus, Garcia-Margalit said that recognition of Palestine should not be just a symbolic act, since it is aimed at promoting peaceful settlement in the Middle East.
In addition, the Foreign Minister said that, in his opinion, the EU should recognize Palestine as a state. According to him, it needs to reconcile with Israel a number of issues, including the definition of borders and the status of Jerusalem.
Earlier, it became known that the Parliament of Spain intends to hold a symbolic vote on the recognition of Palestine next week. Spanish lawmakers believe that such an act will support the EU"s position and will help to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
October 30, Sweden recognized Palestine as a state and became the first EU member state, taking such a step. On the same day, Israel decided to recall its ambassador from Sweden as a mark of protest.