France and the EU do not accept tolls being imposed in the Strait of Hormuz
On Thursday, French Foreign Minister emphasized that establishing a toll mechanism in the Strait of Hormuz is "unacceptable," reiterating that it violates international law. A spokesperson for the European Union stated on Thursday that the EU firmly opposes any idea of imposing "tolls" in the Strait of Hormuz.
On France Inter radio today, Foreign Minister Barro said: "This is unacceptable because freedom of navigation in international waters is a matter of public interest, a common good for all humanity, and should not be obstructed or restricted in any way."
Following Iran's announcement of charging tolls on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. President Trump mentioned on Wednesday the creation of a joint venture to charge fees and manage navigation through the strait.
The French foreign minister said, "No one will accept this, simply because it is illegal. Vessels must be allowed free passage through international waters."
A spokesperson for the EU stated on Thursday that the EU firmly opposes any idea of imposing "tolls" on the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that the strait must remain open for free navigation.
EU spokesperson Anouar El Anouni said: "International law guarantees freedom of navigation, and its meaning is self-evident: no form of payment or tolls should be required."
He stressed, "The Strait of Hormuz, like all other maritime routes, is a common heritage of humanity," adding, "This means the strait must remain open for free navigation."
The United States and Iran reached a ceasefire agreement overnight from Tuesday to Wednesday, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Since February 28, when the U.S. and Israel launched a war against Iran, this vital corridor for global oil trade had been nearly blocked by Iranian authorities who control the strait.
Source: rfi
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862001910532106/
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