In a pivotal move aimed at strengthening ties, French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a strategic partnership on December 2, 2024, during Macron’s state visit to Riyadh. This partnership focuses on enhancing cooperation in several domains, including defense, energy, culture, and mobility.
During the visit, the two leaders discussed efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon, where they called for holding presidential elections. They emphasized the importance of stability and security in Lebanon, which has been facing a prolonged political crisis. The partnership also seeks to promote regional peace, with particular attention to the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.
Macron’s visit is not just about geopolitical strategy but also aims to bolster economic relations between France and Saudi Arabia. The two countries are exploring deeper cooperation, particularly in the fields of energy and defense, as France aims to secure support for the Lebanese military and contribute to stabilizing the situation in Lebanon.
The French president also hopes to garner Saudi support for political reforms in Lebanon, which is in the midst of a severe economic and political crisis. This agreement marks a significant moment in Franco-Saudi relations, reaffirming their shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Middle East.
The French delegation, which included business leaders from major French companies, highlighted the expanding economic opportunities. While talks regarding military cooperation are ongoing, Macron’s visit strengthens both diplomatic and commercial ties between the two nations.
