As Macron visits Gulf, can France forge its own energy-for-security future?
Summary
President Emmanuel Macron is visiting Gulf countries to strengthen defense ties and secure oil and gas supplies for France. His visit comes amid violent protests in France and disruptions to global fuel shipments caused by the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.Key Facts
- Macron’s Gulf tour includes stops in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar.
- France and Kuwait signed eight agreements covering defense, AI, and investment.
- The UAE is France's largest Gulf trading partner, with €10.8 billion ($12.1bn) in bilateral trade in 2025.
- France supplied 18% of the UAE’s arms imports in 2025, second to the US at 42%.
- The visit reflects a shift as Europe and the Gulf reduce dependence on the US for security.
- France faces violent protests over public spending cuts, school conditions, and pay freezes.
- Energy prices are rising due to the Iran-related conflict, affecting fuel availability in France.
- The UAE, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia have agreed to supply France with significant monthly diesel shipments.
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