Spain officially recognizes Palestinian s8k8tate

MADRID -- Spain officially recognized Palestine as a statehood on Tuesday, following approval in a Council of Ministers (cabinet) meeting chaired by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

"We have adopted recognition because it is fair to the Palestinian people, the only way to ensure security for Israel and ensure peace in the region," Spanish Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation Jose Manuel Albares told a news briefing.

In a declaration before the meeting, held at Moncloa Palace (presidency headquarters) in the Spanish capital, Sanchez said, "It is a historic decision with the sole objective of helping Israelis and Palestinians achieve peace."

Spain will recognize a "viable" Palestinian state, including the Gaza Strip and the West Bank "connected by a corridor," unified by the Palestinian Authority and with East Jerusalem as its capital, he said.

"We will not recognize changes to the 1967 borderlines other than those agreed upon by the parties," he added.