Irish leader calls recognition of Palestine an 'historic' decision

(L-R) Irish Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications and Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan, Taoiseach Simon Harris and Tanaiste Micheal Martin speak to the media during a press conference outside the Government Buildings, as the Republic of Ireland recognised the state of Palestine. Damien Storan/PA Wire/dpa

Ireland's leader called it an "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 undertake whatever national steps are necessary to give effect to that decision," prime minister Simon Harris said in Dublin.

Harris said he was "confident" other countries would join the initiative.

"This is an 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 historical struggle, and 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 advance the prospect of a "permanent peace" in the region.

The decision by the three countries to recognize Palestine will take effect on May 28.

Irish prime minister Simon Harris (L) and Tanaiste Micheal Martin speak to the media during a press conference outside the Government Buildings, as the Republic of Ireland recognised the state of Palestine. Damien Storan/PA Wire/dpa
Irish prime minister Simon Harris speaks to the media during a press conference outside the Government Buildings, as the Republic of Ireland recognised the state of Palestine. Damien Storan/PA Wire/dpa

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