France and Saudi Arabia have agreed to strengthen their defence partnership through a new declaration of intent covering military capabilities, advanced technologies and cooperation between their defence industries.
The agreement was signed during Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s visit to France on August 25. French President Emmanuel Macron and the crown prince witnessed the signing by Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman and French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Catherine Vautrin.
The declaration aims to expand cooperation in modern defence technologies and facilitate the exchange of expertise between the two countries. Areas identified for collaboration include cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, military training and education.
Both governments said the agreement builds on existing defence cooperation and reflects their commitment to strengthening national capabilities through joint initiatives and technical exchanges.
The declaration comes as France and Saudi Arabia seek to deepen their strategic partnership across several sectors. During the crown prince’s visit, the two countries also signed agreements and memoranda of understanding covering healthcare, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence and entertainment.
A joint statement issued during the visit reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic and strategic engagement. The two sides also welcomed investment agreements involving businesses from both countries.
The defence declaration is intended to provide a framework for further cooperation in areas of mutual interest. It reflects a broader effort by both governments to strengthen bilateral ties and develop capabilities amid changing regional and international security conditions.
The agreement also reinforces France’s engagement with Gulf partners and Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify its defence partnerships and strengthen domestic military capabilities.
