Saudi Crown Prince Seeks New Alliances in France Amid US-Iran War

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made a high-profile visit to Paris this week, signing 21 agreements and memorandums of understanding between France and Saudi Arabia in various sectors.

The deals included investments in defence, health, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and entertainment, with a major highlight being a six-billion-euro ($7 billion) investment for three theme parks in the Paris suburbs.

This move is seen as part of Saudi Arabia's efforts to diversify its partnerships without jeopardizing its strategic alliance with the United States. The on-going war between the US and Iran has exposed Gulf monarchies to the limits of American commitment, leading them to seek alternative alliances.

Saudi Arabia's 'Vision 2030' program aims to reduce the country's reliance on oil exports by diversifying its economy. France is now positioned as a key partner in this effort, with both countries seeking to strengthen their defence partnership and coordinate more closely on regional issues such as Lebanon, Syria, and Middle East security.