Vatican treaty recognizes Palestine

The Vatican has formally recognized a Palestinian state in a new treaty finalized Wednesday, drawing the ire of the Israeli government.

“Yes, it’s a recognition that the state exists,” Vatican spokesman Rev. Federico Lombardi said, according to The Associated Press, of the treaty expected to be signed soon. The document deals with the activities of Catholic religious interests in the Palestinian area.

{mosads}In a statement posted to the Vatican news website, a joint commission of Palestinian and Vatican officials said the treaty’s text “has been concluded” and a formal agreement would be signed “in the near future.”

While the Vatican has referred to Palestine as a state for at least a year, the treaty represents the first legal document from the Holy See recognizing a Palestinian state for diplomatic purposes.

The Israeli foreign ministry said in a text message obtained by AP that it was “disappointed” in the Vatican’s move. 

“This move does not promote the peace process and distances the Palestinian leadership from returning to direct and bilateral negotiations,” it said. “Israel will study the agreement and will consider its steps accordingly.”

The treaty follows increased recognition of the Palestinians in a 2012 U.N. General Assembly decision. Its announcement comes days before Pope Francis is slated to meet Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, according to USA Today.