Finland announced on Friday, September 5th, that it will sign a French-Saudi declaration supporting a two-state solution, while refraining from setting a date to recognise Palestinian statehood. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen wrote on X
The process led by France and Saudi Arabia is the most significant international effort in years to create the conditions for a two-state solution.
“Finland is committed to recognising the state of Palestine at some point in the future,” Valtonen told reporters, without elaborating on a possible date.
Finland’s right-wing coalition remains divided over recognising Palestinian statehood, with both the Finns Party and the Christian Democrats voicing opposition.
Several countries, among them France, Britain, and Belgium have pledged to recognise Palestinian statehood during the 80th UN General Assembly in September.
The adoption of the French-Saudi declaration is “consistent with Finland’s government report on Finnish foreign and security policy, which was unanimously adopted by parliament,” Valtonen said.
Sari Essayah, leader of the Christian Democrats and serving as Agriculture and Forestry Minister, wrote on X that she had voiced her dissent within Finland’s foreign and security policy committee, which brings together the president, prime minister, and cabinet members.
