France's lower house of parliament has taken a symbolic vote to urge the government to recognise the Palestinian state in "view of reaching a definitive settlement to the conflict."
The vote, approved with 339 to 151, is although non-binding but represents a symbolic boost for the Palestinians as the support for a separate Palestinian state grows across Europe.
The French government said that it supported a separate Palestinian state but it was too early for recognition. France, a "veto-wielding member" of the United Nations Security Council, advocates starting peace process first.
Israel is willing to establish a Palestinian state under a peace agreement but alleges such resolutions encourage the Palestinians to avoid dialogue.
Israel's ambassador to France hit out at the proposed resolution last week by saying that it was destructive for the peace effort.
