Saudi Arabia and France Launch Strategic Partnership Council, Eyeing Enhanced Cooperation

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and French President Emmanuel Macron convened in Paris for the inaugural meeting of the French-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council, signaling a strengthened commitment to bilateral cooperation.

The leaders launched several initiatives aimed at enhancing collaboration in defense, energy, and climate action. This meeting, co-chaired by Prince Mohammed and President Macron, emphasized their mutual aspiration to deepen the strategic partnership established during Macron's visit to Saudi Arabia in December 2024. The partnership aims to bolster friendship, trust, and mutual respect, addressing common interests and global challenges, particularly in the Middle East.

During the talks, both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision for regional stability, advocating for state sovereignty, adherence to international law, and diplomatic solutions to conflicts. In defense, they adopted a declaration to strengthen cooperation in armaments and training, committing to increased coordination for global security.

Economic ties were also a key focus, with both sides noting the growth in bilateral trade, which reached approximately $11.8 billion in 2025. In the energy sector, they stressed the importance of stable global energy markets and supply security. Cooperation is set to expand in areas such as oil, petrochemicals, renewable energy, clean hydrogen, and emission reduction technologies, alongside climate solutions.

The meeting also marked the centenary of diplomatic relations between France and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the historic depth of their relationship and their shared ambition to foster a robust partnership for the future.