Saudi Arabia is preparing to extradite four Uyghurs to China: a mother and her 13-year-old daughter, and two men (including the father). They had come to make a pilgrimage to Mecca in February 2020. They risk death or internment camps. Given that the Uyghurs are subjected to brutal repression and a million Uyghurs are interned in concentration camps, what is France's reaction?

We are closely monitoring the situation of these people and, together with our European partners, are mobilizing our efforts in this regard.

France reiterates its commitment to seeing human rights and fundamental liberties respected worldwide. We are approaching these issues at every level, as part of our candid, rigorous dialogue with the Saudi authorities.

As you know, France also maintains a candid, direct dialogue with China at every level on the issue of human rights. We therefore express our deep concern with regard to the Uygur community in Xinjiang.

United States – Death penalty

What is your reaction to the announcement of the death sentence handed down against Melissa Lucio in the United States?

Following the announcement of Melissa Lucio's death sentence, Texas has scheduled her execution for April 27.

France calls on the appropriate U.S. authorities to stay this execution. We reiterate our unwavering opposition to the death penalty everywhere and in all circumstances. France remains resolutely committed to the universal abolition of this unjust, cruel and ineffective punishment. We call on all nations that still have the death penalty to establish a moratorium on it with the goal of its ultimate abolition.

Israel / Palestinian Territories

Clashes broke out this morning in the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. Do you have any comment?

France is concerned by this morning's violence in Jerusalem and by the clashes that left many dead and injured in the Palestinian Territories. We call for the utmost restraint and urge the parties to avoid all forms of violence. France calls for observing and preserving the historic Status Quo at Jerusalem's holy places and reaffirms Jordan's vital role in this regard.

France reiterates its strong condemnation of the terrorist attacks that killed 14 in Israel, including one of our fellow citizens.

We and our regional and international partners remain committed to supporting de-escalation efforts. We reiterate the importance of the two-state solution, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, to achieving a just and lasting peace.