“In the framework of the trust dialogue between France and Saudi Arabia, the President of the Republic addressed the issue of human rights in Saudi Arabia.” It is with this short sentence at the end of a press release published this Friday that the Elysee responds to the controversy caused by the invitation of Mohammed Ben Salmane to the presidential palace on Thursday night.
Several politicians, citizens and NGOs have criticized this visit as “MBS” is suspected of being involved in the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 and the issue of respect for human rights in Saudi Arabia raises questions.
Deepening the relationship between France and Saudi Arabia
“The President of the French Republic and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia welcomed the strengthening of exchanges between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France,” the statement continues, adding “the desire to deepen the relationship between the two countries.” .
The Elysee also welcomed “the efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to diversify its economy”, particularly in the field of energy, while Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest exporter of crude oil.
Emmanuel Macron also wants to extend “cooperation to new fields and French and Saudi cultural institutions.” “The President of the Republic expressed France’s support for Riyadh’s candidacy to host the Universal Exhibition in 2030,” the statement said.
Diversification of energy supplies
Israel, Iranian nuclear deal, crisis in Lebanon, fight against Daesh, war in Yemen… the two men agreed to “develop and deepen the partnership between the two countries” on these various issues.
Emmanuel Macron and Mohammed Bin Salman also addressed the issue of the war in Ukraine. They want to “intensify cooperation” to “mitigate (its) effects in Europe, the Middle East and the world.”
The French leader “stressed the importance of continuing the coordination initiated with Saudi Arabia with a view to diversifying the energy supply of European states,” the statement added.
Source: BFM TV
