UAE, French Presidents discuss bilateral ties in Paris

Sharjah 24 – WAM: President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Emmanuel Macron of France explored the longstanding and strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on expanding cooperation in various fields, including economic, investment, and cultural sectors.

Areas of cooperation

The leaders also discussed deepening collaboration in climate action, energy, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, and other shared priorities, aligning with their vision for sustainable development and prosperity.

Meeting at Elysee Palace

During their meeting at the Élysée Palace, President Macron warmly welcomed President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, expressing pleasure at hosting him in France. In return, Sheikh Mohamed thanked President Macron for the reception.

Regional and international developments

The two leaders exchanged views on regional and international developments, reaffirming their commitment to peace, stability, and ongoing dialogue, with a focus on addressing global challenges.

UAE-France strategic collaboration

Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the productive collaboration between the UAE and France, especially in energy and climate action, noting the Comprehensive Strategic Energy Partnership established in 2022 and the launch of the UAE-France Bilateral Climate Investment Platform.

Artificial Intelligence cooperation

Both leaders emphasized their shared commitment to the responsible use of artificial intelligence for global development. They also discussed cooperation in the protection of world heritage and other mutual interests.

Signing of UAE-France framework for AI cooperation

President Sheikh Mohamed and President Macron attended the signing of the UAE-France Framework for Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence. The agreement was signed by Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority, and Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, alongside Éric Lombard, Minister for the Economy and Finance of France.

AI campus investment and strategic partnership

The leaders reviewed cooperation under the joint UAE-France Framework Agreement, including investment in a 1GW AI Campus in France. They emphasiسed their intention to create a strategic AI partnership, focusing on AI infrastructure, data centre development, talent building, and virtual data embassies for sovereign AI and cloud infrastructure.

Strengthening UAE-France relations

The UAE-France Framework Agreement for AI Cooperation highlights the strength and dynamism of their relationship. Both leaders agreed to closely monitor the progress of various AI cooperation projects moving forward.

Dinner hosted by President Macron

President Macron hosted a dinner in honor of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the accompanying delegation, further strengthening ties between the two countries.

Delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohamed

Sheikh Mohamed arrived in Paris with a delegation that included key UAE officials, such as His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dr Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, and Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, among others. The meeting was also attended by senior French officials.