President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said that UAE and France share a vision for harnessing artificial intelligence responsibly to drive global development.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed the deep-rooted strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and France during a high-profile meeting at the Élysée Palace. The discussions centred on expanding bilateral cooperation across economic, investment, and cultural domains while also focusing on emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, climate action, and energy security.
Welcoming His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, President Macron expressed his appreciation for the UAE’s commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. In turn, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed extended his gratitude for the warm reception and underscored the significance of UAE-France relations, which continue to evolve and deepen in alignment with shared goals for global stability and sustainable development.
Strategic AI Collaboration Takes Centre Stage
One of the key highlights of the meeting was the signing of the UAE-France Framework for Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence. This landmark agreement was signed on behalf of the UAE by His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority and member of the Abu Dhabi Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council. France was represented by His Excellency Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, and His Excellency Éric Lombard, Minister for the Economy, Finance, and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty.
Under this framework, both nations aim to establish a strategic AI partnership, with plans to invest in a 1GW AI Campus in France. The initiative will focus on AI research, development, and deployment while ensuring mutual benefits in technological advancements and innovation. The agreement also envisions collaboration in AI value chain development, investment in AI-led infrastructure, cutting-edge chip technology, and the establishment of Virtual Data Embassies to enhance sovereign AI and cloud computing capabilities in both countries.
“The UAE and France share a vision for harnessing artificial intelligence responsibly to drive global development. Our collaboration in AI will pave the way for technological innovation that aligns with ethical standards while supporting economic growth,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.
Expanding Energy and Climate Action Cooperation
Further strengthening their existing alliance, the two leaders reviewed progress under the UAE-France Comprehensive Strategic Energy Partnership, which was launched in 2022. They also assessed the UAE-France Bilateral Climate Investment Platform, which aims to accelerate investments in sustainable and renewable energy projects. Given both nations’ commitment to advancing climate action and reducing carbon emissions, discussions also focused on broadening collaboration in clean energy production, sustainable technology, and environmental protection initiatives.
“The UAE and France have made remarkable strides in energy cooperation, particularly in climate action. Through our continued partnership, we will enhance our collective efforts in advancing sustainability and supporting the global transition to clean energy,” remarked President Macron.
Dialogue on Regional and Global Stability
Beyond economic and technological collaborations, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and President Macron exchanged views on pressing regional and international matters. Both leaders underscored the importance of working together to promote peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond. They discussed the ongoing challenges in global security, diplomatic initiatives for conflict resolution, and the role of multilateral cooperation in fostering lasting stability.
The meeting reinforced the commitment of the UAE and France to supporting global efforts in conflict resolution, economic development, and humanitarian assistance. Both leaders reiterated their stance on fostering diplomatic solutions and strengthening international partnerships to address contemporary global challenges.
As part of the diplomatic engagement, President Macron hosted a state dinner in honour of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the accompanying UAE delegation. The occasion served as a testament to the robust relationship between the two nations and their shared vision for continued collaboration across various sectors.
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