Macron's Gulf Tour: Addressing Energy Security and Regional Stability

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to embark on a tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar next week, as announced on Wednesday. The primary focus of his visit, scheduled from October 19 to 21, will be to discuss the volatile situation in the Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global energy prices, according to his office. This region has experienced attacks on energy infrastructure amidst the US-Iran tensions, which have also disrupted oil exports via the strait. With Houthi rebels in Yemen now vying for control of the Bab Al Mandeb strait, concerns are mounting over a potential escalation of the global energy crunch.

An Elysee Palace source stated, “In light of the crisis gripping the Middle East, the President will continue his efforts with regional leaders to promote a return to stability and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.” The discussions are also intended to address the securing and diversification of France's energy supplies and their transport routes, aiming to mitigate the effects of the energy crisis on French citizens.

During his engagements in the UAE, President Macron's talks are expected to cover defense, security, and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). In Qatar, he is slated to attend a climate event and engage in discussions regarding economic relations with Gulf countries. Macron has a history of visits to the UAE during his presidency, including a meeting with President Sheikh Mohamed at the Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi last December, where he also addressed French troops stationed in the country. Previous visits include his participation in the Cop28 climate summit in Dubai in 2023 and a trip in 2017 for the opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Earlier this year, in July, President Macron made a significant visit to Damascus, marking the first appearance by a major Western leader in Syria since the conclusion of its civil war. President Macron's second term in office concludes next year, and he is constitutionally ineligible to seek a third term.