The President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, addressed the United Nations General Assembly this Monday, affirming that Portugal was ready to “actively work” towards peace. Concluding his speech, Marcelo emphasized the importance of recognition now, stating that “tomorrow would be too late.”
“Portugal has formally recognized the State of Palestine as a sovereign state with full rights,” he declared, receiving applause from those present.
At the UN headquarters in New York, the head of state remarked that this decision reflects the “conviction that a two-state solution is the only viable path to just and lasting peace in the Middle East.”
Marcelo stressed that by taking this step, announced yesterday, Portugal “seeks to contribute to greater international efforts towards peace, justice, and stability.”
“If we do not act, the crisis will leave scars for generations, fueling extremism and more instability. Therefore, access to humanitarian aid must be ensured without delays,” he pointed out, further emphasizing that “all hostages must also be released.”
“Acts of terrorism like the one on October 7 can never be justified, and civilians—regardless of religion, nationality, or ethnicity—must always be protected. Thus, a ceasefire must occur now,” he stated.
Marcelo also mentioned that Portugal’s commitment to the Middle East has been “constant and clear,” consistently advocating for a two-state solution, in line with the UN. He reminded that Portugal voted for the Palestinian Authority to have more extensive rights within the institution, with observer status, among other supports.
“We recognize that both countries continue to face security threats,” he highlighted, referring to Israel and Palestine—urging dialogue between the two nations and seeking a path to peace.
“Portugal’s recognition of the State of Palestine is not an isolated gesture, but a continuation of decisive policies and contributions towards a two-state solution. Portugal is prepared to work actively. Our message is clear. The recognition of the State of Palestine is the recognition of peace itself—now, today. Tomorrow would have been too late,” he concluded, receiving further applause from those present.
[Updated at 21:51]
