French President Emmanuel Macron will travel to Saudi Arabia on December 2 at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Élysée Palace announced.
Élysée sources described the visit as an “exceptional state visit,” at the highest diplomatic level, reflecting strong ties and a close personal relationship between Macron and the Crown Prince.
Paris views the visit as a “crucial moment” in the evolving ties between France and Saudi Arabia. Both nations aim to elevate their relationship to the level of a “strategic partnership,” which will be formally announced during the visit.
Macron’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia is seen by Paris as a pivotal moment in advancing bilateral ties.
Both nations plan to elevate their relationship to a formal “strategic partnership” during the visit, reflecting shared ambitions for the next decade, underpinned by a joint action plan, according to the Élysée Palace.
Supporting Saudi Transformation
The visit comes as Saudi Arabia undergoes significant economic transformation under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030.
It highlights France’s support for Saudi Vision 2030, including major projects like NEOM, AlUla development, and efforts in renewable energy and cultural initiatives. Paris views this as an opportunity to expand economic and cultural cooperation.
Tackling Regional Crises
Macron and the Crown Prince will address major challenges, including the Gaza conflict, Lebanon’s political stalemate, the Yemen war, and Iran’s nuclear activities.
France aims to work with Saudi Arabia on ceasefires, peace efforts, and humanitarian initiatives, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon.
In Gaza, France seeks Saudi collaboration to push for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and humanitarian protections.
Paris also emphasizes the importance of Saudi contributions through the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to advance a two-state solution for Palestine.
In Lebanon, discussions will focus on consolidating the ceasefire, supporting presidential elections to fill the leadership vacuum, and driving reforms.
France also highlights the importance of rebuilding efforts, estimated at $15 billion, and appreciates Saudi contributions to recent international aid conferences.
The Élysée sees Saudi Arabia’s modernization and social reforms as positioning the Kingdom as a central player in a more interconnected Middle East.
France supports Saudi bids for major global events, such as hosting Expo 2030 and the Winter Olympics, viewing these as opportunities for deeper cooperation.
Macron’s engagement with Iran will also be discussed, as France seeks to balance dialogue with Tehran while urging it to cease actions that destabilize the region.
The French President’s schedule includes high-level meetings, a visit to Riyadh Metro, the Saudi-French Economic Forum, and cultural stops in Diriyah and AlUla.
The trip underscores France’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s transformation and promoting stability in the region.
