Abbas says Portugal's intention to recognize State of Palestine "positive step"

RAMALLAH, Aug. 1 (Xinhua) -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed on Friday Portugal's announcement of its intention to take steps to pave the way for its recognition of the Palestinian state in September, describing it as a "positive step."

"We appreciate this courageous and positive step by the Portuguese government, which consolidates the path of the two-state solution and confirms the international community's consensus on the need to end the suffering of the Palestinian people," Abbas said in a statement published by the Palestinian news agency WAFA.

Abbas called on countries that have not yet recognized the State of Palestine to take such steps in support of peace.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro said on Thursday that the government intends to consult President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and all political parties represented in Parliament to consider recognizing the State of Palestine during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in September. Enditem