Starmer, Macron to host virtual summit to reopen Strait of Hormuz: CNN report
KATHMANDU: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are set to host a virtual meeting of world leaders to discuss efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and secure vital shipping routes, CNN reported.
Around 40 countries are expected to take part in the summit, which will focus on supporting the fragile ceasefire involving Iran and ensuring safe passage through the key maritime corridor, CNN said.
A statement from the British Prime Minister’s Office says discussions will include plans to establish an international mission aimed at reopening the strait. The proposed initiative would be strictly defensive and involve a combined military effort to be deployed once conditions permit, CNN reported.
The summit will also consider ways to support the International Maritime Organization’s work to enhance the safety of vessels and crew navigating the region, CNN added.
Starmer is scheduled to arrive in Paris on Friday to co‑host the meeting with Macron, CNN reported. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is also expected to attend, a German government official told CNN.
‘The unconditional and immediate reopening of the strait is a global responsibility, and we need to act to get global energy and trade flowing freely again,’ Starmer is expected to tell the summit, CNN said.
He is also likely to emphasise the need to reassure commercial shipping and to support mine‑clearance operations to stabilise maritime activity, CNN reported.
A German official said Berlin is prepared to contribute to ensuring safe navigation through the strait, provided there is a clear legal framework in place, CNN reported. The contribution could include mine‑clearance vessels or maritime surveillance capabilities, areas where the German armed forces have significant expertise, the official added.
