Barbados is set to formally recognize Palestine as a state, revealed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kerrie Symmonds.
During a media launch marking the 166th Regular Session of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, Symmonds announced the decision made by the Cabinet to extend formal diplomatic recognition to the State of Palestine.
Maintaining diplomatic relations
Symmonds emphasized that this acknowledgment of Palestine does not impact Barbados’ relationship with Israel, which has been formally recognized by Barbados since August 29, 1967.
He underscored the strong bilateral ties between the two countries, particularly in areas such as technical cooperation, food security, agriculture, and addressing water-related challenges.
Commitment to a two-state solution
Barbados has consistently advocated for a two-state solution at the United Nations. Symmonds highlighted the incongruity in promoting such a solution while not recognizing Palestine as a state.
The move to formalize recognition aims to rectify this inconsistency.
Diplomatic outreach
Barbados engaged in formal discussions with the State of Palestine in September last year, preceding the Israel-Hamas Gaza Strip dispute.
Symmonds clarified that Barbados, in alignment with CARICOM, expressed unconditional disappointment with the humanitarian crisis and dissatisfaction with the proportionality of the Israeli response to the conflict.
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Calls for de-escalation
Expressing concern over the escalation of tensions in the region, Symmonds urged for reason, clear-headedness, and diplomacy to prevail.
He called for a de-escalation of hostilities and emphasized the need for a return to stability in the affected area.
Barbados’ decision to recognize Palestine reflects its commitment to diplomacy and its stance on promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.
