Macron: G7 to weigh energy routes bypassing Strait of Hormuz

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) are set to focus on energy security and supply diversification as they convene for a summit opening on June 15 in Evian-les-Bains, in southeastern France. A central topic on the agenda is the development of infrastructure that would allow the transport of petroleum products and natural gas while bypassing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

French President Emmanuel Macron outlined these priorities in an interview with TF1, emphasising the urgency of reducing reliance on the narrow maritime chokepoint. “As part of the work we will carry out within the G7, we will do everything possible to reduce our dependence on this strait,” Macron said.

He underscored the scale of the issue, noting that prior to the current conflict, as much as a quarter of global oil and gas supplies transited through the Strait of Hormuz, making it one of the most critical arteries for international energy trade.

In connection with the uncertainty surrounding the future organisation of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, Macron stated the need to seek alternative supply routes. As an example, he cited a project to build a gas pipeline across the territories of Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. According to him, the UAE could build a pipeline with access to the other side of the strait, while Saudi Arabia could build one to the Red Sea coast. He also mentioned the possibility of constructing a pipeline in Egypt with access to the Mediterranean Sea.

By Tamilla Hasanova