French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have reaffirmed their countries’ strategic partnership during talks in Paris.
In a joint statement issued after their meeting at the Élysée Palace, the two sides agreed to expand cooperation in defence, energy, investment, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, culture and tourism. They also said their shared vision for the Middle East was based on state sovereignty, international law and diplomatic solutions.
The leaders called for negotiations to resolve tensions with Iran and urged Tehran to resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. They also condemned attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and called for freedom of navigation and the safe movement of commercial vessels, according to Arab News.
On Gaza, France and Saudi Arabia welcomed an agreement concerning Hamas’ disarmament and urged its full implementation. They called for a lasting ceasefire, safe humanitarian aid and an end to Israeli settlement activity and settler violence. Both countries again supported an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders.
The statement also addressed Lebanon, Yemen, Sudan and Syria. Paris and Riyadh backed Lebanon’s sovereignty, its armed forces and the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. They called for the disarmament of non-state armed groups and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory.
On Yemen, they supported UN-led efforts for an inclusive political settlement and condemned Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, civilian infrastructure and shipping. Regarding Syria and Sudan, they stressed unity, stability, sovereignty and economic recovery.
Economic and technological cooperation
Trade between France and Saudi Arabia reached about $11.8 billion in 2025. The countries agreed to strengthen investment and financial cooperation and welcomed plans by Qiddiya Investment Company to develop a major entertainment, cultural and sports destination in Cergy-Pontoise near Paris. The project could attract around €6 billion during its development.
The two sides also agreed to cooperate more closely in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and other advanced technologies. Their partnership on AlUla, a major Saudi cultural and archaeological destination, was extended until 2035.
More than 22 agreements and memorandums were announced during the visit, covering defence, healthcare, technology and entertainment. A Saudi-French business meeting also explored joint projects in energy, transport, finance, tourism and industry.
The agreements suggest that Paris and Riyadh are seeking a partnership that reaches beyond traditional diplomacy, one built on security, investment and a shared hope for stability in a changing region.
