Sweden's new government says it has recognised a Palestinian state, a move declared by the prime minister as a priority for the left-leaning minority coalition.
The EU member country has joined two other western European nations - Malta and Cyprus - which have officially recognised Palestine.
Foreign minister Margot Wallstrom said Sweden had decided on the move because the "criteria of international law" had been fulfilled, saying there is "a territory, a people and government".
The EU has said that it would recognise a Palestinian state "when appropriate" and has urged that negotiations be resumed as soon as possible to achieve a two-state solution.
Earlier this month, MPs in the UK held a symbolic vote in favour of recognising Palestine as a state.
PM David Cameron said at the time that he looked forward to the day when the UK recognises the state of Palestine but insisted it will only happen when a peaceful two-state solution is achieved.
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