This is the assessment of the French media on Macron's upcoming visit to Serbia, BGNES reports.
Le Parisien newspaper says that "in the midst of a political crisis, Macron is fleeing to Serbia today and tomorrow (29 and 30 August), where he is likely to conclude a contract for the sale of 12 Rafale aircraft."
"When things get tough in Paris, President Macron travels and chooses the international stage - his safe zone. It becomes even safer for him if the trip ends with the signing of major contracts. This should also be the case in Serbia, where President Aleksandar Vucic will greet him," the newspaper adds.
The Paris daily recalls that "Vucic plans to buy 12 Rafale aircraft to upgrade old post-Soviet MiGs."
The Liberation newspaper reports that "Macron is going on a business trip to Serbia, where he will meet the nationalist and populist President Vucic.
"Despite human rights violations and the closeness of the Serbian authorities to Moscow, the sale of 12 Rafale fighter jets must be formalized," the paper continues.
The Sud Ouest portal's assessment is that despite France's discretion on the €3 billion deal, "this is not the case in Serbia, which underlines the importance of this project."
Le Monde newspaper has a similar position, pointing out that "despite the great caution of the Elysee Palace on the issue of aircraft sales in the midst of the political crisis in France, the clarification of the contract with Belgrade, known for its close ties with Moscow, is expected."
The Se News website stresses that Vucic makes no secret of his sympathy for Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"In May, Serbia and China signed an agreement to build a common future, making the Balkan country the first in Europe to enter into such a partnership with Beijing," the French media outlet said.
Radio France Internationale (RFI) noted that "the timing of Macron's visit to Serbia is surprising because it comes in the middle of consultations to elect a new prime minister."
Macron arrives today (29 August) for a two-day visit to Serbia. After the meeting with Vucic, several documents will be signed at bilateral level. | BGNES
