Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, had a meeting in Riyadh with his counterpart from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan al Saud.
The two ministers discussed the situation in the Middle East. They highlighted the need to consolidate the ceasefires in Iran and Lebanon and make headway on a lasting political settlement guaranteeing regional peace and stability.
The Minister reiterated France’s very strong condemnation of the attacks Iran has carried out on its neighbours. He reaffirmed France’s solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in this context and its readiness to contribute to its defence, should circumstances again require it.
The Minister reaffirmed France’s commitment to de-escalation and a diplomatic solution. He called for the unconditional, unrestricted and immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and reiterated France’s willingness to contribute – when conditions allow and together with its partners – to guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the strait, as part of the Franco-British initiative.
The two ministers emphasized that a diplomatic solution was essential in order to guarantee that Iran never acquires nuclear weapons and to address the threats posed by its ballistic and drone programmes and its destabilization activities. They expressed their readiness to support all efforts to this end.
The two ministers also discussed the consequences of the war in the region, particularly in Lebanon, and the need to support the authorities against the forces challenging the State’s sovereignty. The Minister stressed that the ceasefire in Lebanon must be fully observed by the parties.
Finally, they reaffirmed their desire to continue their close coordination in order to contribute to regional stability and the ongoing diplomatic efforts.