Saudi Defense Minister Explores Military Cooperation Opportunities in France

Saudi Minister of Defense, Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, has embarked on a significant official visit to France, marked by a series of high-profile meetings with key figures in the French defense and industrial sectors. The visit, conducted upon the directives of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, aims to foster collaboration in military industries, research and development, technology transfer, and localization, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative.

The minister commenced his visit with a strategic meeting alongside his French counterpart, Sebastien Lecornu. The discussions included strategic relations, defense cooperation, and a shared regional security and stability vision. A notable outcome of the meeting was the signing of an executive plan for collaboration on capabilities, military industries, and research and development between the Saudi Defense Ministry and the French Ministry of Armed Forces.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz visiting the French frigate Chevalier Paul

One of the highlights of Prince Khalid’s visit was a gathering in Paris with leaders from prominent French industrial companies. The participants included Eric Papin, chairman and CEO of Naval Group, Eric Trappier, chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, and Eric Beranger, CEO of MBDA. This meeting aimed at exploring promising opportunities for collaboration in military industries, research and development, as well as the transfer and localization of technology. The discussions underscore the commitment of both nations to enhancing their military capabilities and technological advancements.

In addition to diplomatic talks, Prince Khalid had the opportunity to witness an air defense exercise featuring Rafale aircraft during his visit to the French frigate Chevalier Paul. The defense minister was briefed on the frigate’s defense capabilities and advanced technologies, highlighting the importance of fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between the two nations.

The timing of the visit is crucial, considering the evolving geopolitical landscape and the shared interest of Saudi Arabia and France in bolstering their defense capabilities. The discussions and agreements reached during Prince Khalid’s visit laid the groundwork for strengthened cooperation in military and technological domains, contributing to the long-term objectives outlined in Vision 2030.

As the visit unfolds, it symbolizes a tangible commitment from both Saudi Arabia and France to deepen their strategic partnership, fostering innovation, knowledge exchange, and joint efforts to address regional security challenges. The agreements signed and discussions held during this visit are poised to leave a lasting impact on both nations’ defense and technological landscape, solidifying their collaborative endeavors in the years to come.

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz