Harlem Désir, Minister of State for European Affairs, will today receive Oscar Stenström, State Secretary to Anna Linde, Swedish Minister for EU Affairs and Trade.

The discussions will focus on the consequences of the British referendum, the future of the EU, the European Pillar of Social Rights and the Social Summit scheduled to be hosted by Sweden in the fall of 2017.

Israel / Palestinian Territories – Destruction of humanitarian facilities

France condemns the destruction on September 7 by Israel of humanitarian facilities funded by European and international donors, including France, in the Palestinian village of Al Aqaba (in Area C of the West Bank). This is the fourth time that Israeli authorities have destroyed humanitarian structures funded by French humanitarian assistance since the start of 2016.

France expresses its deep concern at the continuation—at an unprecedented rate—of the demolition and confiscation of structures intended for the Palestinian population. It calls on the Israeli authorities to put an end to these operations which are contrary to international law and jeopardize the two-State solution to which France is attached.

Niger – Terrorist attacks

France condemns the attacks that have been carried out since the beginning of September by the terrorist group, Boko Haram, in Niger, which have killed more than a dozen people.

We extend our condolences to the victims' families as well as to the Nigerien authorities, whose commitment to the fight against terrorism we applaud.

France reaffirms its solidarity with all states in the region involved in the fight against terrorism. It continues to support their action to ensure the security and economic development of the Lake Chad Basin.