Saudi crown prince's France visit to elevate partnership, says economist

Economist Bandar Al-Juaid asserts that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to France will bolster economic collaboration and elevate ties to a strategic level. Dr. Al-Juaid, speaking on Al Ekhbariya TV, notes that the visit occurs during a critical period marked by global shifts in geopolitics and economics. He emphasizes the alignment between Saudi Vision 2030 and France's own 2030 plan, indicating that the trip will expand economic cooperation between the nations.

Al-Juaid also highlights the creation of the Saudi-French Strategic Partnership Council as a key development, signaling a significant step up from a mere partnership to a strategic relationship. The council's inaugural meeting in Paris is viewed as the initiation of this intensified collaboration. Upon arrival in Paris, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was greeted at Les Invalides with an official reception led by French Minister of the Armed Forces Sébastien Lecornu.

His procession included French Republican Guard horsemen and ceremonial motorcycles, alongside the playing of both the Saudi royal anthem and the French national anthem. The crown prince proceeded to inspect the honor guard, which lined up to salute him as the guard commander introduced the military units involved in the ceremonial reception.