PARIS, April 17 (Reuters) – European nations like Belgium, the Netherlands, and France have the ability to help clear mines and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, stated French Defence Minister Catherine...
PARIS, April 17 (Reuters) – European nations like Belgium, the Netherlands, and France have the ability to help clear mines and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, stated French Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin during an interview with French TV station TF1 on Friday.
She mentioned, "We have the capabilities to provide fully supported escort services – which are not offensive, of course – to help ships safely navigate through the strait. This is what will be discussed today in Paris."
On Friday, France and Britain will lead a meeting with around 40 countries. This gathering aims to show the United States that some of its close allies are prepared to assist in restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key area, typically responsible for around 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas transportation, provided conditions are safe.