Evasive 'PKK' response from French Foreign Ministry spokesperson

During the French Foreign Ministry's weekly press briefing, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Christophe Lemoine was asked a question regarding the presence of the PKK/YPG in Syria and France's approach to these elements.

In response to the question, "Does France define the PKK as a terrorist organization? Do you acknowledge that the entity you call the SDF in Syria is linked to the PKK and serves as its front organization? What is your response to this structure in Syria requesting French military support to deploy against Turkey?" the French spokesperson stated:

"For us, what is important in principle is that the groups currently operating on Syrian territory are included in the transition process. As far as I know, this is what is intended to be done between the SDF forces and the (Damascus administration) authorities. Regarding the Kurdish forces, I would like to remind you of President Macron's words. We are aware of our debt to the Syrian Democratic Forces and the freedom fighters. They stood by us during the difficult years of the fight against terrorism. These are our President's words." 

When asked another question requesting clarification on his remarks regarding the PKK, Lemoine avoided giving a clear answer, stating, "I will not comment on the nature of the PKK."

Touching upon regional developments during the press briefing, Lemoine noted that France would be pleased with the election of a new President in Lebanon, and expressed his wish for this election to be a "source of hope" for the Lebanese people and Lebanon's allies.

Lemoine stated that this election should be followed by the formation of a strong government that will bring the Lebanese people together.

News Source: AA