The Saudi Foreign Minister discusses regional developments with his French counterpart
His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, the Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, discussed with his French counterpart the latest regional and international developments, within the framework of the joint and continuous coordination between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the French Republic regarding urgent issues of common interest.
Diplomatic activity amid regional tensions
These talks come at a sensitive time, as the Middle East region experiences instability and escalating tensions, particularly with regard to the ongoing military operations in the Gaza Strip and their catastrophic humanitarian consequences. Discussions between the two ministers focused on the need to intensify international efforts aimed at an immediate ceasefire, ensuring the protection of unarmed civilians, and securing safe and sustainable corridors for the delivery of humanitarian aid and relief to those affected, in accordance with international law and international humanitarian law.
Pushing for a two-state solution and sustainable stability
Against the backdrop of the political conflict, the Saudi side consistently emphasizes in its discussions with international partners, including France, that military solutions do not achieve security, and that the only way to guarantee regional stability is to create a genuine political horizon leading to a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue. The Kingdom plays a leading role in mobilizing international support for the recognition of an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital—a position that aligns with French and European efforts to revive the peace process based on the two-state solution.
The Lebanese file and maritime security in the Red Sea
The discussions were not limited to the situation in the Palestinian territories, but extended to the regional repercussions of the crisis, particularly the situation in Lebanon. Both the Saudi and French sides are keen to prevent Lebanon from sliding into a wider conflict and to support Lebanese state institutions to enable them to overcome the political and economic crises. The consultations also typically address the importance of maintaining maritime security in the Red Sea, a vital artery for global trade, and the necessity of concerted international efforts to prevent any threats to global supply chains and the international economy.
Strategic partnership and high-level coordination
These diplomatic moves are rooted in a long and deep history of relations between Riyadh and Paris. France, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a key player in the European Union, views Saudi Arabia as a cornerstone of security and stability in the region. These ongoing contacts reflect the strength of the strategic partnership between the two countries, not only in the political sphere but also in the growing economic and cultural cooperation under the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, thus enhancing their ability to formulate common positions that serve international peace and security.
