RIYADH: French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Riyadh on Monday for a three-day state visit to strengthen ties between France and Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.
During the visit, Macron will hold high-level meetings, a visit to Riyadh Metro, the Saudi-French Economic Forum and cultural stops in Saudi tourist destinations Diriyah and AlUla.
According to Elysee Palace, Saudi Arabia’s ongoing modernization and reforms are vital to the strengthening of the Kingdom’s position as a central player in a more interconnected Middle East.
Macron visited Saudi Arabia in December 2021 while the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman visited Paris in June 2023, accompanied by a ministerial delegation.
Saudi Arabia and France have also both played a key role in seeking solutions to Lebanon’s crises. Partnership and consultation with Saudi Arabia are viewed by France as crucial to restoring peace in Lebanon, Arab News reported.
Regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict, France is pushing for a ceasefire and humanitarian protections in Gaza.
It has also emphasised the importance of Saudi contributions through the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to advance a two-state solution for Palestine.
Macron’s visit comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is hosting COP16, a global platform addressing desertification under the theme “Our Land, Our Future.”
He will attend the One Water Summit, co-chaired by France and Kazakhstan, which aims to address water resource management challenges in the face of climate change.
These events underscore the commitment of both nations to environmental sustainability, a cornerstone of their partnership.
