Photo: Gonzalo Fuentes/ Reuters
French President Emmanuel Macron had a telephone conversation with Iranian President Massoud Peseshkian, during which he called on Tehran to return to the negotiation process on the nuclear programme as soon as possible. This was reported by Radio Liberty.
“Iran’s nuclear programme is a matter of grave concern and must be resolved through negotiations. That is why I invited President Pescekian to return to the negotiating table as soon as possible to reach an agreement – the only viable way to de-escalate,” Macron said.
The French leader also raised the issue of the release of two French citizens, Cécile Collier and Jacques Pari, who have been held by the Iranian authorities for more than three years in “unacceptable conditions”. Macron stressed that Paris considers their detention to be politically motivated and demands their immediate release.
In addition, he warned the Iranian side against any attacks on French diplomatic missions and citizens in the region, given the rising tensions in the Middle East.
Macron’s calls came amid an escalation in the region caused by Israeli air strikes on Iranian targets and intensified Western efforts to prevent a nuclear breakthrough by Tehran.
