Macron Clarifies Syria Comments, Says US And France United

Paris, France, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Apr, 2018 ) :President Emmanuel Macron sought to clarify his comments on French and US miliary operations in Syria on Monday, saying both countries were committed to finishing the battle against the Islamic State group and helping the peace process there.

Macron said on Sunday evening that Paris had convinced US President Donald Trump to stay engaged in Syria "for the long-term" -- but just hours later the White House responded by saying it wanted US forces there "to come home as quickly as possible".

Asked about a difference in position, Macron said both countries had the same military goal but also had the same long-term target of building a stable and peaceful Syria.

"We have one military objective and only one: the war against ISIS," he told a press conference, using an alternative name for the extremist group that is also sometimes to referred to as Daesh.

"The White House is right to recall that the military engagement is against Daesh and will finish the day that the war against Daesh has been completed. France has the same position," he said. "I suggested no change last night."