Saudi-French meeting to enhance defense cooperation and localize industries
Saudi-French relations have taken a new step towards strengthening their strategic partnership, with a high-level meeting held between the two sides to discuss opportunities for developing defense and military cooperation. This meeting comes within the framework of ongoing efforts to solidify ties between Riyadh and Paris, which enjoy a long history of joint cooperation in the fields of security and defense, reflecting the depth of bilateral relations and the mutual desire to enhance coordination to address current challenges.
Dimensions of the historic and strategic partnership
France is a key strategic partner for Saudi Arabia in the military field, with roots in decades of cooperation that have included major arms deals, joint training programs, and the exchange of military expertise. This cooperation extends beyond traditional aspects to encompass close security and intelligence coordination. This meeting is part of a series of periodic meetings aimed at reviewing and updating cooperation frameworks to keep pace with the rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape in the region and the world.
Vision 2030 and the localization of military industries
The localization of military industries featured prominently in Saudi-French discussions, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to localize more than 50% of military spending by 2030. The Kingdom views France as a leading technological partner capable of effectively contributing to the transfer of technology and industrial expertise. The meeting addressed ways to enhance joint investment in the military manufacturing sector and support the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) and the Saudi Arabian Military Industries Company (SAMI) in building sustainable local capabilities. This will contribute to diversifying the national economy and creating quality job opportunities for Saudi youth.
Regional and international importance of cooperation
This defense cooperation is of paramount importance given the delicate regional circumstances in the Middle East. Saudi-French coordination plays a pivotal role in bolstering regional security and stability, particularly with regard to securing international waterways, combating terrorism, and addressing threats to global energy security. The convergence of views between the two countries on numerous international issues makes strengthening their joint defense capabilities an urgent necessity to ensure strategic balance in the region and deter any potential threats that could destabilize international peace and security.
In conclusion, this meeting represents an additional building block in the edifice of strong relations between the two countries, confirming the commitment of both parties to move forward towards a more advanced and comprehensive defense partnership that serves the interests of the two friendly peoples and contributes to the stability of the region.
