The Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, received on Friday a phone call from the French President, Emmanuel Macron, reported the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
During the phone call, both leaders discussed the recent developments in the region. They also explored efforts made towards de-escalation in Gaza and Lebanon to achieve security and stability.
Separately, the French President called on Friday for an end to weapons export to end the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, reported Reuters.
During a press conference on the sidelines of Med9 meeting, which brought together the EU’s Mediterranean leaders in Cyprus, Macron said: “We have reiterated the need for a ceasefire, and this ceasefire is essential both in Gaza and in Lebanon. It is necessary now both for our hostages and the civilian population who are victims of the violence, and to avoid regional contamination.”
The French President added: “This is why France has called for an end to the export of weapons used in these theatres of war (…). We all know that this is the only way to put an end to it.”
The conflict in the Middle East has seen sharp escalation in recent weeks, with Israel striking southern Lebanon, Beirut’s southern suburbs and the Bekaa Valley, targeting Hezbollah’s top commanders, and launching a ground offensive into southern Lebanon. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has responded with firing rockets deeper into Israel, amid fears of a wider regional conflict.
On Tuesday, the Saudi Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman, met with the French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Patrick Maisonnave, in Riyadh. During their meeting, they discussed the latest regional developments.
Prince Khalid also met with the French Delegate General for Armaments, Emmanuel Chiva, on Thursday. Their meeting focused on strengthening joint cooperation in the field of military industries.
