The Daily Press Briefing

Statements made by
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and International Development
Spokesperson


Paris - August 12, 2016
In this issue:

◢  Russia – Conversation between Jean-Marc Ayrault and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov (August 11, 2016)

◢  Sudan – Signing of the roadmap (August 9, 2016)

◢  Thailand – attacks

 
Russia – Conversation between Jean-Marc Ayrault and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov (August 11, 2016)

On August 11, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Development Jean-Marc Ayrault spoke by phone with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. The two ministers exchanged views on the situations in Ukraine and Syria.

Mr. Ayrault underscored the importance for Ukraine and Russia to resolve recent tensions over the situation in Crimea through dialogue, avoiding any escalation. He reiterated that France, working with Germany, would continue its efforts to implement the package of measures developed under the Minsk agreement within the Normandy format.

With respect to the situation in Syria, he reiterated the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the only thing that can facilitate the prompt resumption of political negotiations. As for the city of Aleppo, he stressed the imperative need to end the bombing of civilian populations, and in particular the bombing of hospitals, as well as the urgent need to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The two ministers ended their conversation by discussing the latest negotiations on the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh.



Sudan – Signing of the roadmap (August 9, 2016)

France applauds the signing, in Addis Ababa, on August 9, by all Sudanese parties (government, opposition) of the roadmap that should lead to inclusive peace negotiations in Sudan.

The political process, which comes about through national dialogue, is indeed the only way for Sudan to overcome its current conflicts. A first step would be to conclude a cessation of hostilities agreement and to guarantee humanitarian access to the conflict zones.

France hails the efforts of the African Union, and particularly President Thabo Mbeki.



Thailand – attacks

France condemns the series of coordinated bomb attacks that struck several beach resort areas in the south of the country last night and this morning, leaving at least four dead and many injured.

We offer our condolences to the victims' families and loved ones and assure the Thai people of our absolute solidarity.

French nationals and travelers are advised to exercise maximum caution and stay away from crowds. They should also let their loved ones in France know that they are all right.

Since yesterday evening, the Quai d’Orsay's crisis and support center has been closely monitoring the situation, in conjunction with our embassy in Bangkok.

More information for French nationals traveling to Thailand may be found by visiting our "conseils aux voyageurs" (advice for travelers) Web page: http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/conseils-aux-voyageurs/conseils-par-pays/thailande/.



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