French, Slovenian presidents call for independent Palestinian state

LJUBLJANA, Oct. 21 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron and Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar on Tuesday expressed hope that the current Gaza peace deal will open the way to an independent Palestinian state, according to a statement from the Slovenian president's office.

The two leaders voiced support for implementing the Gaza peace agreement, saying it should mark "the first step toward lasting peace and political stability, leading to an independent Palestinian state as well as security and prosperity for all nations in the region." They also underscored the need to deploy peacekeeping forces and ensure humanitarian access and civilian safety in Gaza.

Slovenia recognized the Palestinian state in June 2024, followed by France in September 2025.

During his two-day visit to Slovenia, Macron also attended the MED9 summit of nine Mediterranean and Southern European Union member states in Portoroz. He later met with Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob, with the two sides signing an economic cooperation agreement. Macron said Europe should strengthen energy connectivity and boost competitiveness. ■