Bolivia recognizes Palestine as independent state

Bolivia has recognized Palestine as an independent state, following the lead of Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay, AFP reported.
Bolivian President Evo Morales on Friday said his government would send a letter to Mahmud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, recognizing Palestine as "an independent and sovereign state."

Speaking at a news conference in Paraguay, Morales said Bolivia would officially notify international institutions of its decision next week.

He charged that "genocide" was being committed in the region and called on the international community to assume responsibility for preventing it.

Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay recognized Palestine as an independent state earlier this month, drawing a rebuke from Israel.