Media: Under the Shadow of the Iraq War, French President Macron to Visit South Korea Next Week

French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit two Asian countries from Tuesday, March 31st to Friday, aiming to seek a "common solution" with Asian nations regarding the Middle East conflict.

AFP noted that the visit was originally planned to strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two countries, but the conflict triggered by the United States and Israel against Iran a month ago has cast a shadow over it. Iran's response has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf, causing economic impacts across Asia due to the geopolitical crisis.

The Elysée Palace stated, "We are also affected economically by this crisis," such as rising fuel prices, thus discussions with Asian leaders will focus on "how to find common solutions." France expects extensive talks on France’s proposed initiative to jointly align "the will of all parties" on the issue of the Strait of Hormuz.

Paris insists that, as Washington’s traditional allies appear to be distancing themselves from the war launched unilaterally by Trump without consultation, there is a need to reach consensus with Asian nations on "dialogue" and finding a way out through diplomatic means.

Asian nations rely heavily on oil imports from the Middle East, much of which must pass through this narrow waterway. South Korea and France have signed a statement alongside about 20 other countries expressing "willingness to contribute to efforts aimed at reopening the strait," provided that hostilities cease.

Beyond current circumstances, France’s state visits to Seoul on Thursday and Friday—marking the first visit by a French head of state to South Korea since 2015—are intended to reinforce partnerships crucial to France’s strategy in the Indo-Pacific region. The visit will also help prepare for the G7 Summit in Evian, located in the French Alps, in June, where South Korea (a member of the G20) will also attend.

For years, President Macron has emphasized his ability to engage in dialogue with the U.S. President, despite recent tensions in bilateral relations. This trip offers him an opportunity to discuss these issues with Asian nations.

Source: rfi

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860991894083592/

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