French President Emmanuel Macron and Jordan’s King Abdullah II called for stronger diplomacy and dialogue to reduce tensions in the Middle East, deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza and preserve regional stability.
A joint statement issued by the French presidency said the two leaders discussed bilateral relations and regional issues. The statement also emphasized the strong friendship between France and Jordan, based on trust and mutual respect.
Gaza, Palestine and Syria on the agenda
Macron and Abdullah said the Palestinian-Israeli conflict must end on the basis of a two-state solution. The leaders called for concrete steps based on a specific timetable to establish a sovereign Palestinian state, stressing the importance of ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and protecting civilians.
The two sides said United Nations Security Council resolutions and US President Donald Trump’s 20-point ceasefire plan must be implemented. They declared their opposition to any actions aimed at occupying the West Bank, Israel’s attempts to forcibly displace its population and the implementation of the illegal E1 project.
The leaders also noted the need to preserve the historical and legal status of the holy sites in Jerusalem. Macron and Abdullah called on Israel to stop its attacks on Syria, withdraw from the occupied territories and comply with the 1974 Agreement on Disengagement of Forces. They warned of the consequences Israeli attacks could have for the security and stability of the region.
Support for Jordan’s water project
France and Jordan expressed their determination to develop defense and security cooperation, stressing the importance of maintaining mutual consultations to reduce regional tensions. The defense cooperation agreement signed between the two countries was also described as an important step in this area.
Macron and Abdullah agreed to expand economic cooperation and increase partnerships based on mutual benefit. They said French companies should participate in the national water conveyance project supported by France, which is important for addressing Jordan’s water shortages.
The statement said an agreement had also been reached to mobilize financial support for the project. The leaders said supply chains connecting the Middle East and Europe should be strengthened and diversified.
Iranian attacks and support for the Lebanese army
Macron condemned the Iranian attacks against Jordan. The two leaders stressed that maritime traffic must continue freely through the Strait of Hormuz, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea.
France and Jordan reiterated their support for the Lebanese army. Macron and Abdullah opened the Aqaba Process meeting, held in preparation for the conference in support of Lebanon’s armed forces, together with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.
