Published on Oct 4, 2014
Palestinians have hailed a Swedish move to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state as courageous.
Senior Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erakat has expressed hope that all European countries will take the same decision.
Israel's key ally, however, was quick to refute the move.
The U-S State Department claims that any recognition of Palestinian state is premature.
Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven said earlier that the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians can only be solved with a two-state solution.
The move solidifies Sweden's reputation as an influential voice in EU foreign policy and international affairs.
The UN General Assembly had unanimously approved to change the entity status of Palestine to non-member observer state in 2012.
But, the EU never formally recognized the notion.
