France Seizes Opportunity as Saudi Arabia Diversifies Ties Beyond US

France's relationship with Saudi Arabia has undergone significant changes in recent years. According to Bertrand Besancenot, France's ambassador to Qatar and later to Saudi Arabia from 2007 to 2016, Riyadh is now questioning the strength of its partnership with the US, creating an opportunity for new partners like France.

The shift began when former US President Barack Obama's policy toward Iran raised concerns in Riyadh. However, during US President Donald Trump's first term, Saudi Crown Prince Faisal bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud supported his policy of maximum pressure on Iran.

But this closeness to Washington did not prevent a fundamental shift in Saudi diplomacy. The Kingdom wants to maintain its strategic partnership with the US but is seeking alternatives due to questions over the reliability of US commitments.

Saudi Arabia's response is now clear: to diversify its international relationships. China has expanded its presence, cooperation with Russia has grown in the oil sector, while Riyadh is deepening ties with Turkiye, Pakistan, South Africa, and European countries.