The 16th session of the UAE-France Strategic Dialogue took place in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the enduring strategic partnership between the United Arab Emirates and the French Republic. Under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and H.E. Emmanuel Macron, President of France, this high-level meeting aimed to further enhance cooperation across various sectors. The dialogue was co-chaired by H.E. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority, and H.E. Anne-Marie Descotes, Secretary-General of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs on the 17th of May, 2024.
Economic and Energy Collaboration
Central to the discussions were efforts to deepen bilateral relations in trade, investment, energy, infrastructure, and advanced technologies. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to fostering economic ties, particularly in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. A significant focus was placed on enhancing cooperation in nuclear energy, with both parties exploring expansions in new builds and Small Nuclear Reactors. This cooperation is seen as pivotal in decarbonizing energy systems, with a joint objective to triple global nuclear capacity.
Space Exploration and Education
The dialogue also emphasized collaboration in space exploration, particularly in Lunar missions and utilizing space data to address climate change. To strengthen ties in this sector, the Space Sub-Committee of the UAE-France Strategic Dialogue will now include major entities from both countries’ space industries.
Education was a key area of cooperation, highlighted by the expansion of the French school network in the UAE and new strategic plans for Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD). The launch of the Institute for Oceans at COP28 and the upcoming graduation of 42 Abu Dhabi’s inaugural cohort underline the commitment to education and digital transformation.
Cultural and Creative Industries
The cultural and creative industries continue to be a cornerstone of UAE-France relations. The Louvre Abu Dhabi’s success and the launch of the MuseoPro training program for museum professionals were celebrated. Future plans include the restoration of the Grand Trianon of Versailles and the French Cultural and Creative immersion program in the UAE.
Health and Regional Security
Health cooperation discussions focused on knowledge sharing and advancements in public health, with an emphasis on international patient care expertise and academic residency programs. The dialogue also addressed regional and international security issues, with a focus on peace, stability, and security. Both parties called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian access, and a concrete path to the peace process based on the two-state solution. They stressed the importance of resolving the war in Ukraine in line with international law and commended the humanitarian efforts for Sudan. The UAE and France pledged to continue confronting extremism and to work closely within the UN Security Council framework.
The 16th session of the UAE-France Strategic Dialogue concluded with both sides emphasizing their unwavering commitment to deepening and expanding their strategic partnership. This session highlighted the broad scope of cooperation between the UAE and France, reinforcing the shared vision for a prosperous and stable future.
