What to expect from French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Saudi Arabia

French President Emmanuel Macron is welcomed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Riyadh. (AFP)
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Updated 02 December 2024
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What to expect from French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Saudi Arabia

  • From cultural cooperation to resolving conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, Macron has much to discuss on state visit
  • The Elysee Palace has dubbed the visit “exceptional,” signaling the strategic importance of Franco-Saudi ties

PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron has begun a landmark three-day state visit to Saudi Arabia, where a one-on-one meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman anchors an intensive diplomatic schedule.

Arriving in Riyadh on Monday evening, Macron was welcomed with an official ceremony. The Elysee Palace has dubbed the Dec. 2-4 visit “exceptional,” signaling the strategic importance the French government ascribes to Franco-Saudi relations.

It is the latest of several high-profile exchanges between the two nations, building upon the crown prince’s visit to France in April 2018, which laid the foundation for a new era in bilateral relations, Macron’s Gulf tour in December 2021, which concluded in Jeddah, and the crown prince’s return to Paris in June 2023.

According to the Elysee, Macron will first participate in expanded bilateral talks aimed at implementing a new strategic partnership framework. These discussions will establish joint sectoral committees between the two governments.




Macron was welcomed with an official ceremony on Monday. (AFP)

He will then hold private talks with the crown prince, followed by a working dinner bringing together both leaders and associated government officials from both countries. The two leaders are expected to focus on forging joint diplomatic initiatives to address mounting regional tensions.

Lebanon will take center stage in the talks, reflecting both nations’ longstanding influence in the country’s affairs. “Both France and Saudi Arabia have historically played crucial roles in supporting Lebanon,” a diplomatic source noted.

According to the Elysee, the leaders will explore joint initiatives to bolster the ceasefire agreed last week between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia and to address Lebanon’s long-running political deadlock.

“We aim to chart a path forward together — not only to secure a presidential election but also to establish a framework for implementing essential reforms demanded by both the Lebanese people and the international community,” the source added.




Lebanon will take center stage in the talks, reflecting both nations’ longstanding influence in the country’s affairs. (AFP)


Building on commitments made during Macron’s December 2021 visit to Riyadh, the two governments have established a joint humanitarian fund targeting Lebanon’s pressing needs, so as to help the Lebanese population navigate through multiple, overlapping crises.

The Gaza conflict will be another critical focus of discussions. Since the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, the Palestinian territory has come under intense Israeli bombardment, leading to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.

French officials have noted Riyadh’s prominent role in diplomatic efforts to end the conflict between Israel and Hamas, participating in talks with French counterparts and leading a contact group through the Arab League and Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

“Both nations share common ground on Gaza,” an Elysee spokesperson said. “We are aligned in our urgent call for an immediate ceasefire in the region.”

The talks will also encompass broader regional security concerns, according to French officials.

“Syrian developments must be addressed given their impact on regional stability,” the Elysee said, highlighting that discussions will also focus on monitoring Iranian arms shipments to Hezbollah via Syrian regime-controlled territory.

Beyond foreign policy matters, Tuesday’s agenda will focus on economic and environmental initiatives. Macron will tour Riyadh’s newly inaugurated elevated metro system, which features significant French technical involvement.

Saudi-French cooperation is already expanding into previously unexplored or underdeveloped sectors, spanning tourism, fintech, cybersecurity, renewable energy, telecommunications, space technology and artificial intelligence.




Macron will tour Riyadh’s newly inaugurated elevated metro system. (AFP)


Macron will join world leaders at the One Planet Summit’s plenary session, where sovereign wealth funds will convene to discuss climate initiatives. He will co-chair talks with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.

Afterward, Macron will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of At-Turaif in Diriyah on the outskirts of Riyadh, where he will share a lunch with Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, in the presence of his counterpart Rachida Dati and various French and Saudi cultural sector representatives.

The day will continue with Macron attending the Saudi-French Economic Forum, where he will review key outcomes before joining the One Water Summit. The summit, co-chaired by the Saudi crown prince and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, will bring together world leaders to tackle pressing water challenges.




“Both nations share common ground on Gaza,” an Elysee spokesperson said. (AFP)


During the summit, leaders will participate in a series of roundtable discussions exploring water security, resource management, and their broader implications for global politics and economics.

Macron’s visit also coincides with Saudi Arabia hosting COP16, a global platform addressing desertification under the theme “Our Land. Our Future.”

Cultural ties will take center stage on Wednesday at the historic AlUla archaeological site in northwestern Saudi Arabia, where Macron will travel with a delegation of cultural officials.

He will tour the site before meeting with French-Saudi cultural cooperation stakeholders in the presence of Jean-Yves Le Drian, president of the French Agency for AlUla Development, and his counterpart Abir Al-Akel, who chairs the Royal Commission for AlUla.

AlUla stands as an example of Saudi-French partnership, showcasing collaborative expertise in culture, archaeology, construction, tourism and hospitality.




Cultural ties will take center stage on Wednesday at the historic AlUla archaeological site in northwestern Saudi Arabia. (Royal Commission for AlUla)

The state visit will conclude with Macron presiding over the groundbreaking of Villa Hegra, a new cultural hub designed to foster artistic collaboration between France and Saudi Arabia.

This symbolic project, establishing a dedicated artists’ residence, will mark a poignant final event of Macron’s three-day diplomatic mission.

 


Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

  • Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves

RIYADH: A Riyadh fashion seminar on Sunday brought together industry leaders and creatives to explore the future of Saudi Arabia’s fashion economy.

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

Rafi Dikranian and Mohammed Bajbaa speak on “From Drops to Drives: Connecting with Communities,” exploring how culture, streetwear, and grassroots branding are reshaping consumer engagement. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

The agenda focused on three main themes: the evolution of fashion retail in the Kingdom; the role of cultural identity in building brands; and the rising importance of digital fashion and collaboration.

An awards ceremony honored the standout talents of this year’s cohort: APOA, Awaken, Bucketbox, Mona Al-Shebil, Noble & Fresh, Nora Al-Shaikh, Rebirth, Samar Nasraldin, The Untitled Project and USCITA.

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Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

One discussion explored consumer behavior in Saudi Arabia, revealing that the local market continues to grow despite global slowdowns.

Saudi brands that blend cultural heritage with bold innovation, as featured in the latest Fashion Lab showcase. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves.

Retail experiences — both physical and digital — were emphasized as key to engaging Saudi consumers.

Michael Chalhoub, CEO of Chalhoub Group, delivers the opening keynote at The Fashion Seminar 2025, highlighting the importance of creativity and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of Saudi fashion. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Youth culture, streetwear and sports are shaping brand narratives, a panel heard. Speakers discussed how fashion is being used as a tool for cultural storytelling, with an emphasis on grassroots creativity and community building.

Another topic highlighted the power of collaboration between local and international brands. Panelists discussed the importance of long-term partnerships, manufacturing localization, and mentorship to bridge gaps in knowledge and infrastructure.

Speakers also addressed the future of digital fashion, including virtual design, retail innovation, and new marketing strategies targeting Gen Z.

Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping the regional and global fashion economy was a prominent theme of the discussions.

 

 


First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

Updated 04 May 2025
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First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

  • Discussions aim to support sustainable development, promote safe tourism environment

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia — in partnership with the Maldives — is organizing the tourism sector’s inaugural Saudi-Maldives International Forum on Integrity, which is set to take place in the Maldives from May 6 to 7.

The forum is jointly organized by Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, and the Maldives’ Anti-Corruption Commission, in cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

It will cover key topics such as enhancing transparency and governance in the tourism sector, combating corruption, and boosting international partnerships and expertise exchange among member states and regional and international organizations.

The discussions aim to support sustainable development and promote a trustworthy and safe tourism environment, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The forum is expected to attract international participation from more than 40 countries and 10 regional and international organizations.

Attendees will include ministers, heads, and representatives of anti-corruption bodies from OIC member states, as well as key international organizations like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Interpol, the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities, and the UN Development Programme. Local and international experts will also take part.

Organizing the forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global efforts promoting transparency and accountability in tourism, according to the SPA.

The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s recognition of tourism as a key driver of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030. It aims to build a thriving tourism sector, diversify national income sources, and stimulate economic growth.

 


Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

  • They discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas, the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Varno in Riyadh.

 


Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

Updated 04 May 2025
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Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

  • Invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan by Iraqi counterpart

RIYADH: King Salman received an official invitation from Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid on Sunday to attend the 34th regular session of the Arab League Council at the summit level, as well as the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, both set to be hosted by Iraq later this month.

The invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting in Riyadh with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Mohammed Hussein, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The two officials discussed ties between the two countries and reviewed key regional and international developments.

The meeting was also attended by Saud Al-Sati, Undersecretary of the Ministry for Political Affairs.


Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

Event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development.
Updated 04 May 2025
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Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

  • Minister launches initiatives to enhance Kingdom’s workplace safety

RIYADH: The seventh Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference opened in Riyadh on Sunday under the theme “The Future of Occupational Safety and Health.”

The three-day event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development and chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.

Al-Rajhi launched initiatives to enhance Saudi Arabia’s occupational safety and health system, including the establishment of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the National Compliance and Excellence Incentives Program, and the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Guide.

Al-Rajhi said that work-related deaths in Saudi Arabia have dropped to less than one per 100,000 workers since the council’s establishment.

Meanwhile, the number of locals in occupational safety and health roles has risen by 130 percent, reaching more than 29,000 by the end of 2024, compared with 2022.

Al-Rajhi also highlighted improvements in safety compliance and automation. “The compliance rate with safety standards reached 72 percent by the end of 2024, and the automation of safety procedures exceeded 62 percent, up from 30 percent in 2020.”

The conference draws high-ranking officials, experts and specialists from Saudi Arabia and worldwide to discuss the future of occupational safety and health, as well as the challenges and opportunities in global labor markets.

It covers six key themes: workplace sustainability; digitization and technology in occupational safety; the economics of safety; the future of research and innovation; emerging challenges; and human behavior and safety culture.

This focus reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving work environments and achieving professional standards in line with global best practices, a key goal of Saudi Vision 2030.

The event highlights national efforts, displays modern technical trends, supports specialized research, and promotes the Kingdom’s legislative framework to international standards, contributing to the success of major national projects.

Al-Rajhi referred to international reports on workplace challenges. “International reports highlight the serious challenges facing work environments globally. Approximately 3 million worker deaths are recorded each year due to accidents and occupational diseases.”

He said about “395 million non-fatal work injuries occur annually. Statistics show 23 million injuries and 19,000 deaths from heat stress, and 15 percent of workers globally suffer from mental disorders related to stressful work environments.”

The conference program includes specialized scientific sessions, 60 workshops, 20 dialogue sessions, and the Global Occupational Safety and Health Hackathon, where 30 innovative projects are being presented.

An accompanying exhibition features local and international organizations, with several significant agreements expected and new initiatives to advance the Kingdom’s occupational safety system.

The ministry also emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to securing a healthy work environment and ensuring worker safety, which enhances labor market competitiveness and overall quality of life.

Al-Rajhi said: “In line with Vision 2030, we aim to make work environments safer, higher quality, and more attractive. This supports employee well-being, boosts labor market competitiveness, and fosters a culture of safety and sustainability. Therefore, the Kingdom established the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.”

The General Organization for Social Insurance launched a directory for occupational safety and health standards at the conference, serving as a unified reference for specialists, establishments, and relevant entities in the Kingdom.

This initiative aims to enhance safety and health standards while protecting workers from occupational hazards, as part of its broader strategy.

Based on international best practices, the directory provides clear preventive standards to help reduce injuries and hazards.

It covers more than 4,500 standards in six main sectors: public industries; construction; agriculture; maritime activities; transport; and mining. It also classifies more than 70 sectors based on the national directory of economic activities.