RAMALLAH, July 25 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday welcomed France's announcement to officially recognize the State of Palestine, calling it a "courageous step" that will help promote peace and preserve the two-state solution.
In a statement released by the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, Abbas said the move affirms France's commitment to supporting the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and upholding international law and United Nations resolutions.
"It is a victory for the Palestinian cause and a reflection of France's historic stance in support of our people and their right to freedom and self-determination," he added.
He also urged European countries that have not yet recognized the State of Palestine to follow France's move, and reiterated the importance of supporting Palestine's full membership in the United Nations.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that France will officially recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in September. ■
