Ireland is upgrading its diplomatic relations with the Palestinian territories in recognition of progress being made by the Palestinian Authority, officials told the press yesterday.

In the dying days of the current government, it was confirmed after a Cabinet meeting yesterday that the Palestinian diplomatic representation will now be known as the Palestinian “mission,” instead of the previous Palestinian “delegation.”

The move stops short of granting full diplomatic privileges and immunities, but is still a step forward. Similar moves have been announced in recent months by Spain, France and Portugal.

The British government is still holding out, though the Ha’aretz reports that the UK, Sweden, Belgium, Finland, Germany and Denmark are expected to follow.

Naturally the Israeli government accused the Irish of being biased, saying:

We are not surprised by this move in light of the Ireland’s longstanding slanted policy with regards to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

On Monday, Peru announced it had officially recognised the Palestinian state, joining Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia, Ecuador and Guyana.

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