Barbados set to officially acknowledge Palestine as a sovereign state

Barbados is set to officially recognize Palestine as a state, as disclosed by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Kerrie Symmonds.

Speaking at a media launch for the 166th Regular Session of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, Symmonds announced that the Cabinet had decided it was time for Barbados to formally acknowledge the State of Palestine diplomatically.

Symmonds emphasized that this recognition would not impact Barbados’ relationship with Israel, which has been formally recognized by Barbados since August 29, 1967. He highlighted the mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries, particularly in areas such as food security, agriculture, and addressing water-related challenges.

The Foreign Affairs Minister noted that Barbados has consistently advocated for a two-state solution at the United Nations. He pointed out the inconsistency of supporting a two-state solution while not recognizing Palestine as a state.

Symmonds revealed that steps were being taken to rectify this inconsistency by formally recognizing Palestine. Barbados had engaged in formal discussions with the State of Palestine in September of the previous year, prior to the escalation of tensions between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Expressing solidarity with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Barbados voiced its disappointment and dissatisfaction with the humanitarian crisis and the perceived disproportionate Israeli response. Symmonds called for de-escalation of the conflict, aligning with other nations advocating for peace. -(CMC)