(Reuters) -New Zealand is considering recognition of a Palestinian state, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said on Monday. Peters said Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's cabinet would make a formal decision in September and present the government's approach at the U.N. Leaders' Week.

Peters said that while some of New Zealand's close partners had opted to recognize a Palestinian state, New Zealand had an independent foreign policy.

New Zealand is deliberating on recognizing a Palestinian state, with a decision expected in September. This follows similar moves from countries like Australia and Canada. Foreign Minister Winston Peters emphasized New Zealand's independent policy and the government's commitment to aligning its actions with its core principles and national interests.