Palestine expects nine more countries to recognize its independence in 2023, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki told RIA Novosti.

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas noted that recognition of Palestine is the key to peace in the region. So far, 138 states have recognized Palestine's independence.

The Palestinian minister said he will visit an unnamed African country in two weeks, which he expects to announce recognition of Palestine at the end of his visit.

The Palestinian foreign minister added that work is also underway with seven or eight Western European countries on the issue.