Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki told DEA News that his government expects nine additional nations to recognize the State of Palestine within 2023, a step seen as pivotal to advancing national sovereignty and regional stability. The remarks reflect a broader diplomatic push aimed at broadening international acknowledgement of Palestinian independence, a process that has spanned decades and involved many avenues of international diplomacy.
In a related statement, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas underscored the view that recognition from the international community serves as a cornerstone for achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. At present, a substantial cohort of states recognizes Palestine as a sovereign entity, with the total tally standing at 138 countries. Historical milestones mark this trajectory, including the moment on November 18, 1988 when the Soviet Union, and later the Russian Federation, officially acknowledged the State of Palestine, signaling significant geopolitical shifts that reverberated through diplomatic channels for years to come.
Al-Maliki stressed that the Palestinian leadership treats the issue of international recognition with the utmost seriousness and reiterated an aspirational target of reaching 155 recognizing states within the year. He framed this objective not merely as a symbolic number but as an indicator of tangible legitimacy and the ability of the Palestinian people to pursue self-determination on the global stage. The emphasis is on constructive engagement with partners who can influence diplomatic outcomes and on sustaining momentum across multiple continents.
The diplomat added that proactive diplomatic efforts are currently underway with a country in Africa and another in the Americas, where high-level discussions and formal steps are being pursued to recognize the independence of the State of Palestine. He noted that consultations continue with seven to eight potential partners in Western Europe, highlighting a broad, multi-regional strategy aimed at creating a sustained pathway to wider recognition. These activities form part of a long-term plan to bolster political standing, reinforce international law, and foster environments conducive to peace negotiations.
Additionally, the statements conveyed an ongoing commitment to expand cooperation with the Russian Federation, reflecting a nuanced approach to foreign relations characterized by pragmatic dialogue and mutual interests. The evolving dynamic with Moscow is presented as part of a broader effort to diversify diplomatic alliances while maintaining channels with traditional partners. This approach underlines the balancing act that accompanies diplomacy in a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, where alliances and recognition can influence regional security, economic development, and humanitarian access for Palestinian populations in need.