Francophonie summit calls for cease-fire in Lebanon

By Esra Taskin

PARIS (AA) - At a meeting in Paris, countries of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) called for an immediate cease-fire in Lebanon.

French President Emmanuel Macron, OIF Secretary General Louise Mushikiwabo, and former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen issued a joint statement at the conclusion of the 19th Francophonie Summit.

Macron said the situation in the Middle East was discussed in the summit and participants expressed support for Lebanon.

He emphasized that OIF members are committed to achieving an immediate and lasting cease-fire to de-escalate tensions: “We want peace and security for everyone,” Macron said.

Stating that achieving a cease-fire in Gaza is their priority, Macron said not providing weapons to Israel is what is consistent with this goal.

However, he reaffirmed France’s support for Israel, adding, “There is no ambiguity on this. We showed it when Iran launched recent attacks,” referring to last week’s missile attacks.

The OIF is an international organization representing countries and regions where French is widely spoken or where there is strong cultural affinity with France.