Emmanuel Macron welcomes Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for two-day Paris visit

On Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron received Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a two-day visit in Paris. The agenda includes discussions on health, transport, and energy, with several agreements expected to be signed on Monday, according to a French presidential official. The visit kicked off in a unique manner on Sunday evening, with Macron hosting MBS at the Esports World Cup closing ceremony, marking the first time the event was held outside Saudi Arabia.

The event, which features top esports performers, has received MBS's enthusiastic support. The French presidential official did not reveal if the agreements might cover a proposed theme park called Dragons Ball, backed by a Saudi fund, slated for the Val-d'Oise region near Paris. Saudi Arabia plans to host significant global events, including Expo 2030 and the football World Cup in 2034.

During Monday's afternoon meeting, Macron and MBS will convene for the inaugural Saudi-French strategic partnership council, focusing on regional issues and the need for close coordination between France and the Gulf states to promote stability and peace in the Middle East, as stated by Macron's office.