Saudi Crown Prince visits France to sign deals and discuss Strait of Hormuz

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is in Paris for a visit aimed at signing agreements and exploring alternative routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The trip, which began on Friday, seeks to bolster transport, health and security ties between the two nations. The Saudi leader met with French President Emmanuel Macron, who stated the visit reflects the "vitality of the dialogue between our two countries."

This marks the first time Macron and the Crown Prince will convene a meeting of the Franco-Saudi Strategic Partnership Council. The leaders also plan to sign agreements covering technology, transport, energy and health sectors. Prince Mohammed's delegation includes seven ministers. Discussions will include conflicts in the Middle East, particularly involving Israel, Palestine, Lebanon and Syria, where France is involved in developing energy and logistics projects.

The visit coincides with heightened tensions in the region due to the ongoing US-Iran conflict. On Monday, Prince Mohammed is scheduled to meet French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu to address key bilateral and international issues. The leaders will also attend the closing ceremony of the Esports World Cup in Paris, a first for the event, which was initially held in Riyadh as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 project.

Prince Mohammed's last visit to France was in 2023, during which he met Macron and attended a reception as part of Riyadh's successful bid to host the 2030 Expo. Macron last visited Saudi Arabia in 2024. The strong relationship between the two nations is further strengthened by cultural ties, such as Paris's involvement in the restoration of historic AlUla region.