Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced his country's intention to recognize the Palestinian state before the summer.

Sanchez's statements came in an interview with reporters on board the plane, on Tuesday, while he was heading to Jordan, his first stop on his three-day tour of the Middle East.

Sanchez expressed his belief that there will be important developments in the international community between this April and next June regarding the conflict between Israel and Hamas, according to Spanish media.

He added that attention should be paid to discussions aimed at recognizing Palestine as a full member state in the United Nations during the coming weeks.

He pointed out that the joint decision taken with the prime ministers of Ireland, Malta and Slovenia regarding recognition of the Palestinian state will be implemented before the summer if appropriate conditions exist.

Sanchez explained that Spain will take the decision to recognize the Palestinian state first in the Council of Ministers, and then it will be presented to Parliament.

He stressed his belief that the only way to ensure peace and security in the region during the open war between Israel and Hamas is to recognize the State of Palestine.

After Jordan, the Spanish Prime Minister is scheduled to head to Saudi Arabia and Qatar.