Borrell Reveals Timing of Spain and Ireland's Recognition of Palestinian State

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated that "Spain, Ireland, and other EU countries intend to recognize a Palestinian state on May 21." In response to a question from the Spanish radio station "RNE" about whether May 21 is the date when Spain and Ireland, along with other EU countries, will recognize a Palestinian state, Borrell confirmed this, also mentioning Slovenia. He said, "This is a symbolic act of a political nature. More than just recognizing a state, it will acknowledge the will of that state (Palestine) to exist," adding that Belgium and other countries are likely to make the same decision. Borrell's statements come ahead of a anticipated vote in the United Nations today Friday on a Palestinian request for full membership in the international organization.