French citizens are outraged because the Saudi Arabian king has monopolized the beach.

July 27, 2015 14:56

More than 100,000 French citizens have signed a petition protesting the closure of a beach for a private vacation of the Saudi Arabian king.

According to the BBC, the complaint emphasizes that the public beach La Mirandole in the French Riviera must be open to everyone.

"We should remember that this is a natural area, a common asset, and should be open to everyone, whether they are locals, tourists, French, foreigners, or just passersby. We demand that the state guarantee the basic equal rights of all citizens before the law," the complaint stated.

Một hệ thống thang máy nối biệt thự của nhà vua và bãi biển La Mirandole đang được xây dựng. Ảnh: AP
An elevator system connecting the king's villa to La Mirandole beach is under construction. Photo: AP

Earlier, on July 25, authorities ordered the beach closed to prevent protests as King Salman was scheduled to arrive. The king was to vacation at his private villa for three weeks.

He and his entourage of about 1,000 people landed at Nice airport that same day on two Boeing 747s of Saudi Arabian Airlines. The king and his close associates will stay at a villa, while about 700 others will spend the night in hotels in Cannes.

Michel Chevillon, the manager of a hotel in Cannes, believes that the monarch's visit is good news for hotels and the local economy.

"They are very generous spenders," he said.

Thông báo đóng cửa bãi biển được đưa ra kèm sự tăng cường an ninh ở khu vực xung quanh. Ảnh: Reuters
The beach closure announcement was accompanied by increased security in the surrounding area. Photo: Reuters

However, the partial closure of La Mirandole beach near the villa has angered local residents. A lift system connecting the king's villa to the beach is currently under construction. Saudi Arabia has promised to demolish the structure after they leave.

The mayor of Vallauris sent a telegram to President Francois Hollande protesting the illegal activities taking place on the beach.

"We understand the security reasons as well as the greater interests of the government, but no one can place themselves outside the bounds of the law," Michelle Salucki wrote.

A ban on entering the waters within 300 meters of the king's villa was also issued.

"We're so frustrated and tired of this hassle. I know they need to ensure their safety, but they should also let us go swimming," a local woman complained.

According to VNE