Armenia announced that it recognizes the State of Palestine. In this way, Armenia became the next country to recognize Palestinian independence after the beginning of the war in Gaza, reported AFP.
"Reaffirming its commitment to international law, equality of nations, sovereignty and peaceful coexistence, the Republic of Armenia recognizes the State of Palestine," Yerevan said.
Armenia added that it was "sincerely interested in establishing long-term peace and stability in the Middle East."
Yerevan, itself torn by conflict with neighbouring Azerbaijan for decades, denounced the behaviour of the Israeli army in the Gaza Strip.
Armenia condemns the use of civilian infrastructure as a shield during armed conflicts and violence against the civilian population," the country's foreign ministry said.
A senior Palestinian Authority official, Hussein Al-Sheikh, welcomed Armenia's recognition.
"This is a victory for law, justice, legitimacy and the struggle of our Palestinian people for liberation and independence. Thank you to our friend Armenia," Al-Sheikh said on social media. | BGNES