Macron’s Saudi Guest Sparks Journalist Protests
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French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for an official visit on Monday. The agenda covers topics from esports to the war in the Middle East. However, the meeting has drawn immediate controversy.
Three journalists’ unions staged a protest on Sunday. They oppose France welcoming the Saudi leader, whom they describe as a strongman. The unions argue that hosting him legitimizes his record on press freedom and human rights.
The visit proceeds despite the backlash. Macron’s office has framed the talks as pragmatic diplomacy, focusing on regional stability and economic cooperation. No further details on the crown prince’s schedule have been released.