European leaders agree on the need to guarantee the free and unimpeded passage of ships from Sea Strait of Hormuz without economic restrictions or difficulty.
In a period of heightened geopolitical tension and intense concerns about energy and maritime security globally, European powers are attempting to forge a common line towards developments around the Straits of Hormuz. In Paris, 49 countries participated in a crucial teleconference aimed at shaping a framework of stability for one of the world’s most strategic sea lanes. A central issue of the discussions was the unimpeded and safe passage of ships, with European leaders underlining the need for clear guarantees to prevent any restrictions or burdens on navigation. At the same time, proposals for a possible peace and defence mission were put on the table, while diplomatic momentum is intensifying in advance of new consultations next week.
Forty nine countries attended the crucial summit on the Strait of Hormuz, held by teleconference in Paris at the initiative of Emmanuel Macron.
Aiming to ensure free passage
The French president chaired the meeting along with British Prime Minister Kir Starmers, while German Chancellor Frederick Murch and Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni were present.
It is noted that the teleconference did not include the United States and Israel as it was meant to bring together countries not involved in the conflict.
All four agreed that it is imperative to ensure the free passage, without tolls, of the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by ERTnews Paris correspondent Thomais Papaioannou.
European leaders said they were ready, in a new teleconference next week, to hold detailed consultations on the composition of the peacekeeping, defense mission and its operational details.
They did not appear optimistic but welcomed new diplomatic initiatives taken by both the United States and Iran.
