RAMALLAH, August 8, 2018 (WAFA) - Outgoing Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, in presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Colombia, Aría Ángela Holguín, handed an official letter from the foreign minister to Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Malki  stating that "the President of the Republic of Colombia has decided to recognize the State of Palestine."

The recognition came days before the end of President Santos’ term in office, and before the newly-elected president, Ivan Duque, assumes office. The step was approved by the newly-elected president, Duque.

This decision came following years of intensive efforts exerted by the Palestinian foreign ministry, represented by Malki, as well as by Palestine’s diplomatic mission in Colombia.

Colombia was the only South American country that did not yet recognize the State of Palestine.

T.R.