In a new treaty finalized Wednesday, the Vatican has officially recognized the state of Palestine.
Though the treaty is not yet signed, it makes clear that the Holy See has switched its diplomatic relations from the Palestinian Liberation Organization to the state of Palestine.
The United Nations General Assembly had already decided in 2012 to recognize a Palestinian state, something the Vatican welcomed. This new treaty is the first legal document negotiated that constitutes an official recognition of a Palestinian state by the Holy See.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is set to meet with Pope Francis on Saturday.
(h/t the Associated Press)
