Riyadh and Paris are launching a new phase for developing their shared strategic partnership in various economic, investment and trade fields, reported a senior French official, revealing that the two countries could be signing much anticipated agreements next week.
Franck Riester, French minister delegate for foreign trade and economic attractiveness, reaffirmed that awaited deals and understandings will cover a number of sectors, including nuclear and renewable energy.
Water, healthcare, digital economies, innovation and logistics industries are also fields that could witness a strengthening Saudi-French cooperation.
France is seeking to develop its economic relationship with Saudi Arabia under the framework of the partnership agreed between President Emmanuel Macron and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman back in 2018.
“I am here in Riyadh for one day upon the invitation of Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih,” Riester told Asharq Al-Awsat, adding that his visit to the kingdom presents a good opportunity for him to gain an audience with former and current ministers and investors.
“We are currently starting a new phase in the development of the French-Saudi partnership as a result of joint efforts exerted by President Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman,” affirmed the delegate.
Riester also explained that the outcomes of discussions and meetings he held during his one-day visit to Saudi Arabia will lay the foundations for boosting ties with France and reflect positively on both countries.
Other than growing the volume of import and export exchange between the Kingdom and France, the two states are also looking to increase their investments in each other’s industries.
“We are currently working on several different areas in which agreements will be struck next week,” said Riester, adding that he discussed with Saudi officials several upcoming contracts that will be signed between French and Saudi companies.
