CWN - The Holy See has formally recognized a Palestinian state.

The Vatican announced on May 13 that talks had been successfully concluded to complete a treaty between the Holy See and the “State of Palestine.” Father Federico Lombardi, the director of the Vatican press office, confirmed that the announcement was “a recognition that the state exists.”

The Vatican had reached a “basic agreement” with Palestinian authorities in 2000, and a Palestinian envoy was recognized in the Vatican diplomatic corps. But in previous statements the Vatican had referred to the “Palestinian Authority.” The May 13 announcement was the first formal reference to a Palestinian state.

In extending formal recognition for a Palestinian state, the Vatican is following the lead of the UN, which extended formal recognition in 2012. At that time, the Vatican applauded the move.

The conclusion of a diplomatic pact—which now must be ratified by both parties—comes just before a visit to the Vatican by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. A private meeting between the Palestinian leader and Pope Francis is scheduled for May 16, the same day on which the Pope will preside at the canonization of two Palestinian saints.