The meeting between Macron and MBS, scheduled for September 1, underscores the complex relationship between European powers and the Gulf kingdom. Officials said the talks will cover “energy cooperation, regional stability, and strategic investments,” with both sides eager to strengthen ties after a period of strain following the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
For France, the visit offers an opportunity to bolster its role as a mediator in the Middle East and to secure continued access to Saudi oil and gas. Paris has also been courting Riyadh for investments in French technology and infrastructure as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 diversification plan. A source close to the French presidency noted that “discussions on defense cooperation will be on the table,” alluding to potential arms sales and joint military exercises.
On regional conflicts, the two leaders are expected to discuss the war in Ukraine, where Saudi Arabia has adopted a mediating position between Russia and the West. MBS has hosted several rounds of talks involving Ukrainian and Russian representatives, a role that has helped rehabilitate his image in European capitals. The Israel–Hamas war and the broader Palestinian question are also likely to feature prominently, as France pushes for a ceasefire and Saudi Arabia continues to weigh normalization with Israel.
Energy markets will be a central topic. France, like much of Europe, has sought to reduce reliance on Russian gas and has looked to Gulf producers for alternatives. Saudi Arabia, as the de facto leader of OPEC+, has maintained production cuts that have kept prices high. Macron is expected to press for increased output to ease inflationary pressures, though Riyadh has signaled it will prioritize long-term market stability.
Critics have condemned the meeting, arguing that it legitimizes MBS despite his role in the Khashoggi murder and the Saudi-led war in Yemen. Human rights groups have called on Macron to raise the cases of political prisoners and the crown prince’s alleged involvement in torture. The Élysée said Macron “will not shy away from discussing human rights” but did not provide specifics.
Macron has defended engaging with Riyadh, stating that “dialogue is essential for peace and security in a volatile region.” The French president has previously hosted MBS in 2022, and the two have maintained a pragmatic relationship despite periodic tensions.