SYDNEY – Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and French President Emmanuel Macron engaged in a phone call to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, reaffirming their commitment to supporting a two-state solution.
The conversation took place in the wake of a massive pro-Palestine protest in Sydney, which drew an estimated 100,000 people calling for an immediate ceasefire.
During the call, the two leaders emphasized their support for providing aid to civilians in Gaza and expressed their shared commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
In addition to discussing the Gaza crisis, Albanese and Macron also touched on climate action, France’s backing of Australia’s joint bid to host COP31, and the importance of finalizing the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement.
The phone call concluded with an agreement for the two leaders to “stay in touch” and meet again in September at the United Nations General Assembly.
Macron later took to X to share his thoughts on the conversation, stating that Australia, New Zealand, and France are united in their efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
Albanese also recently spoke with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, promising to meet with him on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly next month.
Macron announced last month that he would recognize Palestine’s statehood, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney following suit.
Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has hinted that Australia may soon follow in their footsteps.
The international community, including Australia, Canada, the UK, France, and other nations, have repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian aid in Gaza.