Riyadh: Australia has formally recognised Palestine as a sovereign state, becoming one of more than 150 countries to do so.
According to Emirates News Agency, the move was previewed in August but became official on Sunday in a joint statement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
“Australia recognises the legitimate and long-held aspirations of the people of Palestine to a state of their own,” the pair said.
“Today’s act of recognition reflects Australia’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution, which has always been the only path to enduring peace and security for the Israeli and the Palestinian people.”