French President Emmanuel Macron and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reached an agreement to collaborate in reopening the Strait of Hormuz and alleviating global economic uncertainties stemming from the conflict in West Asia.
Their gathering in Seoul occurred as US President Donald Trump criticized allies for failing to back the US and Israeli efforts against Iran. Macron was visiting South Korea for the first time since he assumed office in 2017 during an Asian tour that has already included Japan.
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During the initial part of the meeting, Macron informed Lee that both nations could assist in stabilizing the West Asia situation, including in the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by South Korean media.
During a subsequent televised briefing, Macron emphasized the importance of collaboration between France and South Korea to facilitate the reopening of the strait and reduce tensions in West Asia, whereas Lee stated that both reaffirmed "their determination to work together to ensure the safe shipping passage in the Strait of Hormuz."
The two leaders refrained from answering questions and did not provide details on their plans to assist in reopening the strait, the narrow channel between Iran and Oman that accommodates roughly one-fifth of the global oil supply.
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Lee mentioned that he and Macron concurred on enhancing collaboration in technology, energy, and various other sectors. Officials from South Korea and France also formalized agreements to work together on nuclear fuel supply chains, partner in an offshore wind project in southern South Korea, and join efforts regarding critical minerals.
Macron's visit to Asia coincides with Trump increasing his frustration with allies. In a speech on Wednesday, Trump stated that Americans "don't require" the Strait, but those countries that do "must seize it and value it."
Trump mentioned, 'We have only 45,000 troops at risk there, adjacent to a nuclear power - let South Korea handle it.'" "Allow Japan to take care of it." Ninety percent of their oil comes from the Strait. "Allow China to handle it." Macron stated that a military operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was impractical.
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Officials from South Korea have confirmed they were in communication with Washington regarding the matter and that Seoul is not contemplating paying Iran transit fees to ensure fuel deliveries via the strait.