Saudi Arabia, a key player in the global energy market, is intensifying its economic diversification efforts by collaborating with French companies. During a visit to Riyadh, President Emmanuel Macron highlighted France as a reliable partner in this energy and economic transition.
Renewable energy is at the heart of these partnerships. EDF Renewables, in collaboration with a Chinese company, will lead the construction of two solar power plants with a capacity of 1,000 and 400 megawatts. Meanwhile, TotalEnergies, partnered with a Saudi company, will carry out a 300-megawatt solar plant project planned for 2026. These initiatives are part of Saudi Arabia’s renewable energy program aimed at reducing dependence on oil and diversifying the energy mix.
Strategic Partnerships and Waste Management
The waste management sector also figures among the priorities of this bilateral cooperation. Veolia, through a partnership with Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC), will participate in the management of the kingdom’s industrial and household waste. Suez, on its side, will invest one billion euros over 25 years in infrastructure dedicated to medical and municipal waste treatment, including an incinerator capable of processing one-third of Riyadh’s waste.
Strengthening Military and Technological Cooperation
On the military front, progress in discussions around the sale of Rafale fighter jets was confirmed by Emmanuel Macron, marking a turning point in the strategic relationship between the two countries. Additionally, in the field of innovation, Aramco has partnered with French start-ups such as Pasqal and Mistral AI to explore applications in quantum research and artificial intelligence.
Port Development and Cultural Cooperation
In the infrastructure sector, CMA CGM will collaborate with the Saudi Ministry of Investment to develop port terminals and logistics platforms. Furthermore, a notable cultural agreement commits Saudi Arabia to invest 50 million euros in the renovation of the Pompidou Center, illustrating a willingness to cooperate beyond energy issues.
These agreements reflect the evolution of diplomatic relations between France and Saudi Arabia, in a context where energy, innovation, and economic development take center stage.
