UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan concluded on Tuesday a visit to France that saw the signing of a host of contracts and MoUs that expand and consolidate the comprehensive strategic relationship between Abu Dhabi and Paris.
French, foreign, and Arab press covered the exceptional hospitality shown to the state visit paid by Sheikh Mohamed at the official invitation of President Emmanuel Macron.
According to observers, the visit and the agreements signed reflect a new and promising phase in French-Emirati relations.
While Sheikh Mohamed described France as a “historic ally and friend,” Macron tweeted: “The strategic partnership we are working on more than ever before strengthens the rapprochement between the United Arab Emirates and France.”
“The cooperation with the UAE covers the areas of security, defense, energy, future technologies, space, culture and education,” he added.
The common message on strong ties was echoed during all of Sheikh Mohamed’s meetings with French officials.
He met with Senate President Gerard Larcher, National Assembly President Yael Braun-Pivet and Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne.
Before leaving Paris, he attended an official military ceremony held in his honor at the Arc de Triomphe.
The Emirati leader laid a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier at the base of the landmark.
A state dinner was thrown in Sheikh Mohamed's honor at the Versailles Palace on Monday.
During the event, Macron highlighted ties between the UAE and France and expressed his happiness with the personal relationship he enjoys with his guest.
He noted that “ambition is at the core of French-Emirati relations,” and listed several sectors in which the two sides intend to deepen comprehensive cooperation.
“Cooperation reflects the level of our relations, as it is a cooperation that knows no bounds,” said Macron.
