Government sources said Japan intends to postpone its recognition of Palestine as a state for the time being.

The Japanese government has apparently been considering announcing its position on the matter at a meeting of world leaders to discuss the Palestinian issue in New York this week.

Meanwhile, Britain and Canada announced on September 21 that they recognize the statehood of Palestine, becoming the first among Group of Seven countries to do so.

A Japanese government source said recognizing the Palestinian state at this time could harden Israel's stance and possibly prevent the Middle East conflict from moving toward a resolution.

Japan is also likely acting in consideration of a request by the United States to put off its recognition.

Under the circumstances, the sources said Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru is not planning to attend the international meeting in New York.