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OSLO -- Norway officially recognized Palestine as a state on Tuesday, the government said in a press release.

"For more than 30 years, Norway has been one of the strongest advocates for a Palestinian state. Today, when Norway officially recognizes Palestine as a state, is a milestone in the relationship between Norway and Palestine," Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said in the release.

On Sunday, Eide handed over a formal document on the state recognition when he met Palestinian Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Mustafa in Brussels, Belgium.

"It was important to be able to hand over a formal letter personally to Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa. He greatly appreciates Norway's commitment to Palestine and our work for a two-state solution. The recognition is a strong expression of support for moderate forces in both countries," said Eide.

During this trip, Eide also chaired two meetings focusing on the urgent situation in Palestine and the need for a two-state solution.

"It is regrettable that the Israeli government shows no signs of engaging constructively. The international community must increase its political and economic support for Palestine and continue the work for a two-state solution," he said.