French Ambassador Patrick Maisonnave Begins Post in Saudi Arabia
Stepping into his new role as the French ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Patrick Maisonnave commenced his duties last week with great anticipation.
Credentials Presented to Saudi Deputy Minister
Having previously served as Paris’s envoy to Greece, Maisonnave officially presented his credentials to Saudi Deputy Minister for Protocol Affairs Abdulmajeed Al-Smari on September 1.
A Diplomatic Journey
Born in September 1963, Maisonnave is a distinguished graduate of the prestigious National School of Administration. His diplomatic career includes notable positions such as French ambassador to Israel from 2013 to 2016, followed by a role as envoy for counter-terrorism at the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs until 2019. Subsequently, from 2019 to 2023, he served as France’s ambassador in Athens.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
With the regional landscape facing challenges such as Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza, Maisonnave aims to leverage his experience as a former ambassador in Tel Aviv to navigate the complexities in Riyadh. His responsibilities also include enhancing economic cooperation and fostering cultural partnerships between France and Saudi Arabia, particularly in the context of the significant development of the AlUla archaeological site under France’s stewardship.
A Diplomatic Duo
Adding to the diplomatic flair, Maisonnave’s wife, Nadia Al-Sartawi, is also a diplomat with a rich background. During her tenure in Athens, she served as the cultural attache at the French Embassy, playing a pivotal role in promoting French culture and language. Notably, Al-Sartawi is the daughter of Issam Al-Sartawi, a prominent figure in the Palestinian Liberation Organization known for his involvement in dialogues with Israel leading up to the 1993 Oslo Peace Accords.