The Irish leader called it a “historic day” for Palestinians as his country, along with Norway and Spain, announced it would recognize the state of Palestine.
“Each of us will now take whatever national steps are necessary to implement that decision,” Prime Minister Simon Harris said in Dublin.
Harris said he was “confident” that other countries would join the initiative.
“This is a historic and important day for Ireland and Palestine,” he said.
“On January 21, 1919, Ireland asked the world to recognize our rights to be an independent state. Our message to the free nations of the world was a plea for international recognition of our independence, emphasizing our distinct national identity, our historic struggles and our independence. our rights to self-determination and justice,” he said in an address to the nation.
“Today we use the same language to support the recognition of Palestine as a state.”
He said Dublin’s move would promote the prospect of “permanent peace” in the region.
The three countries’ decision to recognize Palestine will take effect on May 28.
