France reaffirms plan to recognize Palestinian state
PARIS — French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday reiterated France's commitment to recognizing the State of Palestine, declaring that recent developments in the Middle East would not alter the country's long-standing position.
'France will uphold the rights of the Palestinian people to self-determination by recognizing the State of Palestine,' Barrot said during his address at the civil society event Paris Call for the Two-State Solution, Peace and Regional Security, held as part of the Paris Peace Forum.
'I say it again here: whatever the recent developments in the region, France is determined to do so,' he emphasized.
Barrot warned that it is time to push forward a political resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, adding that the issue would take center stage at the upcoming UN-backed conference on the two-state solution, which France and Saudi Arabia are set to co-host in New York later this month.
'This political solution involves the creation of a viable Palestinian state with renewed governance and strong security guarantees for both Israelis and Palestinians,' he said.
He also urged for 'courage' and 'strong mobilization' from the international community to forge a path toward peace.
Barrot renewed France's call for an immediate ceasefire, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the massive, unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
'The two-state solution, to which we remain firmly committed — a condition for peace and security in the region, and a requirement under international law — is now facing existential threats,' Barrot said, citing the expansion of settlements, the collapse of the peace process, and deepening hostilities.
He concluded by acknowledging the immense human toll in Gaza. 'Too many civilians are paying the price for this war that has gone on for far too long. We owe them our compassion, and every minute should be dedicated to achieving a ceasefire.' — Agencies
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