Saudi Arabia and France have signed a series of agreements covering defense, artificial intelligence, investment, tourism, infrastructure and cultural cooperation during the first meeting of the Franco-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council, according to Arab News. The agreements followed talks between French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Paris. Cooperation on AlUla has been extended until 2035, covering archaeology, tourism, training, sustainable development and cultural preservation. The two countries also agreed to strengthen defense cooperation, including emerging technologies, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and military training. A separate Qiddiya investment project in France is expected to attract €6 billion and create around 22,000 jobs. Other deals include a €434 million investment by CMA CGM and Red Sea Gateway Terminal for Jeddah Islamic Port, a €500 million Alstom contract for Riyadh Metro trains, and technology cooperation between Mistral AI and HUMAIN. Saudi Arabia and France also signed agreements supporting investment, financing, tourism, water infrastructure and international events.
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