announced that Malta will recognize Palestine during the UN General Assembly meeting in September. He stated that this move reflects Malta’s commitment to finding a lasting peace solution in the Middle East. Abela had initially planned to recognize Palestine in May but postponed it due to delays in a UN conference.
This announcement came shortly after similar statements by British and French leaders, signaling growing international support for Palestine’s statehood. Meanwhile, Finland also expressed strong backing for the two-state solution and endorsed France’s peace plan for the region. Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen emphasized that peace is necessary and achievable with dedicated effort.
Valtonen highlighted that recent UN meetings made positive progress toward peace. She said countries signing a joint statement committed to promoting the two-state solution, an immediate ceasefire, releasing hostages, and unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza. The statement also stressed the importance of Palestinian non-violence and Hamas disarmament.
Finland urged countries that have yet to normalize relations with Israel to do so and support regional security. Valtonen mentioned that Arab nations like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt back Hamas disarmament and removal from Gaza. She said recognizing Palestine must balance both Israeli and Palestinian security needs.
Valtonen concluded that Finland will carefully monitor the situation and recognize Palestine when conditions support regional stability and security. This step aligns with ongoing international efforts to achieve peace and justice in the Israel-Palestine conflict.