Macron Says France, US to Coordinate on Energy Markets, Protect Strait of Hormuz
Macron and Trump discuss energy security, Strait of Hormuz navigation and efforts to halt attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure.
New York, Sep 21: French President Emmanuel Macron said France and the United States have agreed to coordinate efforts to ease pressure on global energy markets, protect critical infrastructure in West Asia and safeguard freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Macron made the remarks after meeting US President Donald Trump in New York on Monday on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. He said the two countries would work together to address risks affecting energy supplies and maritime movement.
Macron also said France and the US would work to secure a moratorium on attacks targeting energy infrastructure and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. He stressed the need to protect civilians and begin serious negotiations on the conditions for peace between Russia and Ukraine.
The French president arrived in New York for the UN General Assembly’s high-level week, where world leaders are discussing conflicts, energy security and other international issues. Macron is scheduled to address the General Debate during the session.
The meeting with Trump also covered the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Macron said the two leaders discussed strengthening Ukraine’s defensive capabilities, particularly through the provision of interceptors, and explored measures to halt attacks on energy facilities.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New York to attend the UN General Assembly and is expected to hold consultations on regional developments. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is also scheduled to travel to New York and address the General Assembly on September 23.
Pezeshkian is expected to meet foreign leaders and senior officials on the sidelines of the gathering. Iranian state media also reported that some members of his delegation were denied US visas, a claim that has added another point of tension ahead of the high-level meetings.
Trump is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York as diplomatic efforts continue around the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The discussions come as international leaders gather for the UN General Assembly, whose high-level debate runs from September 22 to 26 and on September 28.
The latest Macron-Trump discussions place energy security, maritime navigation and protection of civilian and energy infrastructure among the issues receiving attention during the UN gathering.
