Farewell to France’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
Bid adieu to Ludovic Pouille, France’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, as he completes his diplomatic term in the Kingdom. Pouille’s career in diplomatic service has been nothing short of impressive, with significant contributions to shaping French foreign policy.
A Career of International Influence
Starting his journey at the Foreign Ministry in 1997, Pouille’s path led him through New York, North Africa, the Middle East, and eventually to the Gulf. His appointment as the French ambassador to Saudi Arabia in 2020 marked a new chapter in his diplomatic journey, following his term in the UAE from 2017.
Strengthening French-Saudi Relations
During his time in Saudi Arabia, Pouille witnessed the development of French-Saudi relations, with high-profile visits from both sides. From Macron’s visit in 2021 to Mohammed bin Salman’s trips to France in 2022 and 2023, the stage was set for continued dialogue and enhanced cooperation between the two nations.
Boosting Bilateral Trade and Investments
In 2023, bilateral trade between France and Saudi Arabia soared to €9.5 billion ($10.2 billion), marking an 18 percent increase from 2016. French exports to the Kingdom continued to rise, reaching €4.2 billion in 2023, with a significant contribution from the aeronautics sector.
French direct investment in Saudi Arabia stands at nearly $5 billion, with a focus on energy and industrial sectors. Key players like EDF, Engie, and TotalEnergies have been instrumental in shaping the economic landscape of the Kingdom.
Paving the Way for Strategic Partnerships
During his tenure in Riyadh, Pouille prioritized French expertise in projects aligned with Vision 2030. By fostering collaborations between French professionals and Saudi stakeholders, he laid the groundwork for strategic partnerships that would propel the Kingdom towards its ambitious goals.
Embracing Vision 2030 and Saudi Culture
For Pouille, Vision 2030 positions Riyadh as a global hub for megaprojects, with Saudi companies leading the way. His time in Riyadh coincided with the launch of the French edition of Arab News, where he immersed himself in Saudi culture and embraced the Kingdom’s vision for the future.
* This article originally appeared on Arab News en français, click here to read it.