ISTANBUL
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Thursday met with his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi in Paris to discuss escalating tensions in the Middle East, emphasizing the need for regional stability, a ceasefire in Gaza, and a diplomatic resolution to the Iranian nuclear issue.
“In the face of the current military escalation in the Middle East, I reaffirmed France’s commitment to the security and stability of the region, including Jordan,” Barrot said, adding that Paris is ready to “strengthen our partnership in this area.”
On Iran, both ministers stressed the importance of returning to diplomacy, according to a joint statement, released by the French Foreign Ministry.
“The only sustainable solution to the Iranian nuclear crisis is diplomatic,” they agreed.
Barrot reiterated France’s “commitment to contribute to a negotiated solution to Iran’s nuclear program, in coordination with our partners.”
Regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, they called for “an immediate cease-fire and the release of all hostages.”
They issued “urgent appeals to the Israeli authorities to cease all obstruction to the entry, delivery, and mass distribution of humanitarian aid in coordination with the United Nations.”
Barrot and Safadi also reaffirmed their determination to work toward convening a high-level international conference to implement the two-state solution.
“The postponement of the conference for logistical and security reasons does not alter the collective momentum it has generated,” they said.
That vision, the ministers added, is built on “the recognition of Palestine, regional normalization and integration, the disarmament of Hamas, and the renewal of Palestinian governance.”
