Ankara: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot warned Tuesday that foreign interference actors were 'not welcome in France,' saying attempts to target the country's democracy would have consequences. Speaking at a news conference at the Foreign Ministry in Paris, Barrot noted that France would hold its presidential election in 2027. 'We know that our democracy is being targeted. As the election approaches, attempts at manipulation and foreign interference will increase,' he said. Barrot said those seeking to target France and undermine its democratic debate would fail, stressing that such activities would have consequences.
According to Anadolu Agency, Barrot also addressed the situation in Gaza, describing it as 'catastrophic' due to recent Israeli attacks causing deaths and injuries. He expressed concern over the occupied West Bank, highlighting increased violence by illegal Israeli occupiers against Palestinians and the ongoing unlawful seizure of Palestinian land. 'All of this threatens the two-state solution,' Barrot said, adding that it violated human dignity and 'threatened Israel's security interests.'
Barrot announced his upcoming trip to Ireland for a meeting of EU foreign ministers, where they would discuss a joint French-Swedish proposal to ban trade with illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank. He emphasized that such measures required an agreement at the European level, which had not yet been reached. Barrot also commented on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' announcement of upcoming general and presidential elections, noting that democratic elections were the best way for Palestinians to affirm their right to self-determination and existence.
On the topic of Lebanon, Barrot stated that fully restoring the country's sovereignty required Israel's withdrawal and the disarmament of Hezbollah. He mentioned ongoing discussions with Lebanese authorities regarding the future of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon, whose mandate is set to expire at the end of the year. France would support an extension of the mission if Lebanese authorities determined it necessary due to conditions on the ground.
In response to Russia's demand that foreign diplomats leave Ukraine, Barrot asserted that 'Diplomats must never be threatened or subjected to any form of blackmail.'