UAE President and French President Macron Discuss Strategic Partnership, Sign AI Cooperation Agreement
Paris, The Gulf Observer: President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Emmanuel Macron of France reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the longstanding strategic partnership between the UAE and France during a high-level meeting at the Élysée Palace.
The discussions focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in key areas, including economic development, investment, and cultural exchange. The leaders also explored avenues for enhanced collaboration in climate action, energy, advanced technology, and artificial intelligence, aligning with their shared vision for sustainable growth and global prosperity.
President Macron welcomed Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and expressed his pleasure at hosting him in France, while Sheikh Mohamed thanked his French counterpart for the warm reception.
The two leaders exchanged views on regional and international developments, emphasizing the importance of continued dialogue and joint efforts to advance peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond.
Highlighting the strong ties between the UAE and France, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed underscored their longstanding cooperation in the energy and climate sectors. He noted the significance of the Comprehensive Strategic Energy Partnership signed in 2022 and the UAE-France Bilateral Climate Investment Platform, launched last year, as key initiatives in advancing sustainability.
In a major step towards deepening their technological collaboration, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and President Macron attended the signing of the UAE-France Framework for Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence. The agreement was signed by His Excellency Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak on behalf of the UAE and His Excellency Jean-Noël Barrot and His Excellency Éric Lombard on behalf of France.
The framework outlines plans to establish a 1GW AI Campus in France, marking a significant investment in AI research and development. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to developing a strategic AI partnership, including cooperation in AI value chain projects, leading-edge chip production, data center infrastructure, and talent development. The agreement also envisions the establishment of Virtual Data Embassies to enable sovereign AI and cloud infrastructure in both nations.
The leaders agreed to closely monitor the progress of these AI cooperation initiatives in the coming months, emphasizing their shared vision for responsible AI development for global benefit.
President Macron hosted an official dinner in honor of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and the accompanying UAE delegation, which included high-ranking officials and ministers.
The visit reflects the continued commitment of the UAE and France to strengthening their multifaceted partnership, with a focus on innovation, economic growth, and global stability.
