Caribbean Affairs
Trinidad and Tobago recognises the State of Palestine
Port of Spain follows Barbados and Jamaica within a fortnight. The region's position has shifted fast.
The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has formally recognised the State of Palestine. The Ministry of Foreign and Caricom Affairs said the decision supports a two-state solution and a just and lasting peace.
Barbados announced its recognition on 19 April and Jamaica on 22 April. In just over two weeks, three of Caricom's larger members have moved from supporting Palestinian statehood in principle to recognising it formally.
Recognition does not change conditions in Gaza, where UN agencies warn of famine. It does place the region's diplomatic record alongside most of the General Assembly, and it gives Caribbean governments standing to press for full UN membership for Palestine.
The General Assembly is expected to vote on Palestine's UN membership rights later this month.
Sources
Independent reporting by Pearce Robinson. Corrections and responses may be submitted here.
