New York, US, September 22: French President Emmanuel Macron said France and the United States have agreed to work together to ease tensions in energy markets, protect critical infrastructure in West Asia and ensure freedom of navigation in 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.
In a post on X, Macron said the two countries had decided to coordinate efforts to address tensions in energy markets and protect critical infrastructure and maritime navigation in the region.
Macron also said France and the US would work to secure a moratorium on strikes against energy infrastructure and civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.“Civilian populations must be protected,” Macron said, adding that negotiations on the conditions for peace between Russia and Ukraine should begin as soon as possible.
Macron arrived in New York to attend the UN General Assembly and is scheduled to address the General Debate on Tuesday. France is among the permanent members of the UN Security Council and is scheduled to speak during the morning session alongside Brazil, the United States and Qatar.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in New York on Monday to participate in the UN General Assembly and hold consultations on regional developments, Iranian state news agency IRNA reported.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is scheduled to travel to New York on Tuesday and address the General Assembly on Wednesday, September 23. He is expected to present Iran’s position on international developments and hold meetings with foreign leaders and officials on the sidelines of the session.
IRNA also reported that the US government had denied visas to some members of the Iranian delegation, including members of the President’s media team. Iranian officials described the move as an action by Washington.
US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York on Tuesday as Washington continues efforts related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and negotiations.
The 81st UN General Assembly session is being held under the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”
The high-level General Debate is scheduled from September 22 to 26 and on September 28 in New York. Leaders are expected to discuss international issues including climate action, development, sea-level rise and pandemic preparedness.