Malta will announce that it officially recognizes a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly today in New York, according to the prime minister’s office, with the country following the example of other states that have taken the same step.

The UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal recognized a Palestinian state yesterday, a move aimed at advancing the two-state solution to end the war in Gaza.

France and several other states are expected to take the same decision today.

Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela first announced plans to recognize a Palestinian state in May, but the United Nations session was subsequently postponed.

Malta has long supported efforts toward a two-state solution while maintaining diplomatic relations with Israel.

The wife of former Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat even lived on the island for several years.

Late yesterday, in a Facebook post, Abela welcomed the delivery of a shipment of flour donated by Malta to Gaza “on the eve of Malta’s recognition of a Palestinian state.” He stated that the recognition of a Palestinian state is “historic” and that Malta remains committed to achieving peace in the region.