Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, Minister of State attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, took part in the meeting of EU tourism ministers, held on the initiative of the Croatian presidency.

Underscoring the importance of tourism for the European economy, in which it represents more than 10% of GDP and 12% of jobs, the ministers discussed the immediate measures taken in response to the crisis. They pledged to cooperate closely in their efforts to support the sector. France stressed Europe's role in adapting the rules for tourism operators and passenger transport companies in order to take into consideration the unique challenges facing these companies, especially in the airline industry, while protecting consumers' rights.

Reviving the tourism sector will also require increased attention and coordination within the EU, while intra-European tourism represents a major share of international tourism in Europe (80% before the crisis). The ministers welcomed with interest the proposal made by Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services, to hold a European summit in the next few months on reviving tourism, involving member states, the private sector and local and regional authorities.

The minister of state stressed the need to promote a new more responsible and sustainable model of tourism, in accordance with the European Green Deal, that would take advantage of the opportunities offered by the digital transformation. France supports the idea that the European recovery plan will, in this regard, focus particular attention on tourism.

Iran – Execution of minors

France condemns the execution of Shayan Saeedpour on April 21 and Majid Esmailzadeh on April 18, who were minors at the time of their offences, and expresses its concern with respect to reports of the death in custody of Danial Zeinolabedini, who had also been sentenced to death.

These executions are contrary to the international commitments to which Iran itself has subscribed, notably the International Convention on the Rights of the Child.

France reaffirms its constant opposition to the death penalty everywhere and under all circumstances, and its commitment in support of the universal abolition of this unjust, inhumane and ineffective punishment. We call on all states that still apply the death penalty to establish a moratorium with a view toward its definitive abolition.

Cameroon

What do you think about the controversy in Cameroon following the meeting between the ambassador and President Paul Biya on April 16, while rumors are growing with respect to the president's absence, and maybe even a power vacuum?

Our ambassador requested a meeting with President Biya as directed, in order to follow up on the meeting between the two presidents on March 1. He also focused on the initiatives taken by France in support of African efforts in the fight against Covid-19.

This was a common and regular diplomatic exercise. Following his audience with President Biya, and as is customary for him and for all other visitors, our ambassador gave a brief statement to the media.