MBS, Macron urge negotiated solution on Iran, discuss Gaza during state visit

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for a negotiated solution to tensions over Iran and reaffirmed their commitment to a diplomatic approach that ensures the peaceful nature of Tehran’s nuclear program, according to a joint French-Saudi statement on Monday.

The two leaders called on Iran to resume cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

The Crown Prince and Macron also condemned attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and threats to freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway, stressing that no direct or indirect fees should be imposed on vessels transiting the strait.

On Gaza, the two leaders welcomed an agreement on the disarmament of Hamas and called for its implementation.

They also stressed the importance of creating the conditions for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and called for an end to Israel’s settlement policy, according to the statement.

The remarks came during the Saudi Crown Prince’s state visit to France, which Macron described as an “important step” in relations between Paris and Riyadh, highlighting cooperation on regional stability, investment and technology.

“Faced with the challenges in the region, France and Saudi Arabia have always worked together to promote peace and stability and will continue their consultations to this end,” Macron said.

The French president said the partnership was also being advanced through concrete action, citing major projects, cutting-edge technologies, investments and international events such as the Esports World Cup in Paris.

Saudi and French entities also signed a series of agreements during the visit, including a memorandum of understanding on a defense partnership and another aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in artificial intelligence.