VALLETTA - Malta will declare recognition of a Palestinian state during the general assembly of the United Nations in September, Prime Minister Robert Abela said on Tuesday evening.

Abela made the announcement hours after a similar declaration by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and days after France also announced its recognition plans.

"Our position reflects our commitment to efforts for a lasting peace in the Middle East," Abela said in a Facebook post.

The Malta government had been under increasing pressure from within its ranks to recognise a Palestinian state and the centre-right Opposition in mid-July also called for immediate recognition.

The Mediterranean EU island has a history of support for Palestinian causes and has backed efforts for a two-state solution.

Abela first announced plans for recognition of a Palestinian state in May, saying it would take place at a United Nations conference in June, but the conference was later postponed.

Ireland, Norway and Spain recognised Palestine as an independent state in May. REUTERS