Macron, Saudi Crown Prince sign strategic partnership, call for stability in Middle East
French President Emmanuel Macron (L) walks next to Saudi's Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman (C) ahead of their meeting in Riyadh on December 2, 2024. Macron touched down in Riyadh, the capital of the oil-rich Gulf kingdom, where he was due to hold talks with de facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman later on December 2, an AFP journalist said. (Photo by Ludovic MARIN / POOL / AFP)
French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman signed a landmark strategic partnership on Monday to strengthen bilateral ties and address regional challenges, including the political impasse in Lebanon.
Macron, on a three-day state visit to Saudi Arabia, held talks with Prince Mohammed, culminating in the agreement to enhance cooperation in defense, energy transition, culture, and mobility.
A joint statement highlighted the leaders’ shared commitment to fostering peace in the Middle East, including efforts to consolidate the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.
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“Together, they called for the holding of presidential elections in Lebanon to unite the Lebanese people and implement reforms crucial for the country’s stability and security,” the statement from Macron’s office noted.
Upon arriving in Riyadh, Macron received a ceremonial welcome with an honor guard of sword-bearing servicemen and celebratory cannon fire. His visit coincides with mounting political pressure at home, as France’s minority government faces a potential vote of no confidence.
Macron’s visit also comes amid escalating violence in Syria, where anti-government rebels have seized control of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, underscoring the fragile security landscape of the region.
This strategic partnership signals a deepening of ties between France and Saudi Arabia, with both leaders aiming to address urgent geopolitical and economic challenges while reinforcing their countries’ roles as key players on the global stage.
