Ankara: French President Emmanuel Macron held a phone conversation with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, focusing on regional and international issues, including the Middle East and the war in Ukraine.

According to Anadolu Agency, Macron commended Saudi Arabia's efforts alongside the Arab League regarding the situation in Gaza, emphasizing France's support and advocacy at the European level. The leaders also discussed Lebanon, where Macron urged for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, highlighting the necessity of Israel's complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory to ensure long-term peace.

The conversation also covered the recent Paris Conference on Syria, which both leaders viewed as a moment of hope and commitment. Macron reassured France's dedication to supporting Syria's transitional authorities and its people as they seek stability after the departure of Syria's long-time leader, Bashar-al Assad, who fled to Russia on December 8, marking the end of the Baath Party's regime.

On the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Macron spoke with Salman about Russia's war in Ukraine, discussing the potential role Saudi Arabia could play in fostering a solid and lasting peace, with Europeans at the center of the process.