France links Palestinian state support to democratic reforms

France has reiterated its position that support for a Palestinian state is contingent upon the renewal of Palestinian democracy. This statement comes one year after Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas reportedly promised French President Emmanuel Macron to hold presidential and legislative elections within twelve months. Abbas's commitment, made on June 9, 2024, to Macron and other international leaders, included a pledge to initiate political reforms. French officials emphasize that the creation of a Palestinian state cannot be backed without parallel progress in democratic governance within the Palestinian territories. The promised elections, which were to occur by June 9, 2025, have not yet materialized.

Sources: Le Monde