Greek Parliament Approve Resolution to Recognize Palestinian State

Greek lawmakers have unanimously approved a resolution calling on the country’s left-led government to formally recognize Palestinian statehood.

Tuesday’s vote, which has no binding effect on the government, was held in the presence of visiting Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas, who later addressed parliament.

Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has declined to say when Greece could adopt the parliamentary resolution.

Tsipras’ government is trying to balance improved relations with Israel with his party’s longstanding support for a Palestinian state. Tsipras visited Israel last month, meeting with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu. He also met with Abbas in Ramallah.