In a move reflecting the depth of bilateral relations and the strategic partnership between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the French Republic, His Excellency Dr. Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Sulami, Vice President of the Shura Council, received a high-level delegation from the French Senate's Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense, and the Armed Forces at the Council's headquarters in Riyadh. The French delegation was headed by Senator Cédric Perrin, Chairman of the Committee, and the visit was part of an official trip to the Kingdom.
Historical ties and growing partnership
Saudi-French relations are based on a long history of close cooperation and shared interests that began with the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries. This relationship has evolved into a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing multiple fields, including politics, economics, culture, and defense. France is a key partner for the Kingdom in achieving the goals of Vision 2030, with French companies contributing their expertise to major projects in the renewable energy, tourism, entertainment, and technology sectors. This parliamentary meeting aims to enhance coordination at the legislative level and support governmental efforts in both countries.
The importance of parliamentary cooperation and its role in strengthening relations
During the meeting, Dr. Al-Sulami welcomed the visiting delegation, praising the historical relations between the two friendly countries. He emphasized that parliamentary cooperation between the Shura Council and the French Senate is a fundamental pillar for supporting joint efforts and deepening mutual understanding. The meeting explored ways to enhance bilateral cooperation in the parliamentary field, exchange legislative expertise, and discuss several topics of common interest on the regional and international stages. Such visits contribute to unifying perspectives on global issues and coordinating positions in international parliamentary forums.
Regional and international impact
This meeting is of particular importance given the challenges facing the Middle East and the world. Both the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France play a pivotal role in promoting regional security and stability, and in combating terrorism and extremism. Ongoing coordination between them, at both the governmental and parliamentary levels, is vital to addressing these challenges. Furthermore, strengthening the partnership between these two influential economic powers within the G20 will have a positive impact on the global economy and contribute to finding solutions to pressing issues such as energy security and climate change.
The meeting was attended on the Shura Council side by Lieutenant General Awad Al-Balawi, Chairman of the Security and Military Affairs Committee; Mr. Mohammed Al-Humaidhi, Chairman of the Saudi-French Parliamentary Friendship Committee; Dr. Latifa Al-Abdulkarim, Vice-Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee; and Mr. Abdullah Al-Madi, a member of the committee. On the French side, the meeting was attended by Senator Rachid Temal, Vice-Chair of the Committee; Senator François Bonneau, Secretary of the Committee; and Mr. Marc Schürer, Director of Administrative Affairs for the Committee.
