Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s historic move to recognize Palestine as a state has put him on a potential diplomatic collision course with U.S. President Donald Trump, with some observers fearing it could jeopardize a planned face-to-face meeting.

Albanese dismissed concerns that recognizing Palestinian statehood would affect the Trump meeting, saying, “It is time to implement Australia’s long-term position based on bipartisan support for two states.”

By taking this step, Albanese defied warnings of potential “punitive measures” from allies close to the U.S. President. On Monday, during appearances on morning television programs, “Recognizing Palestine is in Australia’s national interest and a step forward for all those who want to see peace and security in the Middle East.”he emphasized.

Speaking to Nine’s Today program, “Australia has maintained a bipartisan position supporting a two-state solution for a long time.”Albanese noted.

“Of course, when the United Nations founded and advanced the State of Israel, they envisaged two states at that time – a State of Israel and a State of Palestine, side by side in peace and security, ensuring prosperity for both Israelis and Palestinians.”he added.

When asked whether this move would affect his chances of a face-to-face meeting with Trump, “No, not at all,” Albanese replied.

“Some people in Australia will have different views, and people in Israel have different views on the Middle East as well.”he also pointed out.

Earlier, Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong had emphasized from New York that Australia had officially recognized an independent and sovereign State of Palestine. Albanese described the government’s decision as “a step forward toward a peaceful solution in the Middle East,” highlighting that “recognizing Palestine is a step toward the vision of Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace and security, advancing the welfare of both peoples.” (ILKHA)