UAE, French leaders meet to boost AI, energy, and investment cooperation

U.A.E. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with French President Emmanuel Macron to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral cooperation, particularly in the economic, investment, and cultural sectors, Emirati media reported Friday.

During their meeting at the Elysee Palace, both leaders discussed deepening collaboration in climate action, energy, advanced technology, and artificial intelligence, according to WAM.

They also addressed regional and international developments, reaffirming their commitment to dialogue and cooperation to promote peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond.

Highlighting the strong ties between the U.A.E. and France, Nahyan emphasized their constructive collaboration, particularly in energy and climate action. He noted that the two nations have upheld a Comprehensive Strategic Energy Partnership since 2022 and launched the U.A.E.-France Bilateral Climate Investment Platform last year.

The leaders attended the signing ceremony of the U.A.E.-France Framework for Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence and reviewed collaboration under the joint U.A.E.-France Framework Agreement, which includes investment in a 1GW AI Campus in France.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to advancing projects and investments supporting the AI value chain, including cutting-edge chip production, data center infrastructure, and talent development. They also explored the establishment of Virtual Data Embassies to enable sovereign AI and cloud infrastructure in both countries.

Later, Macron hosted a dinner for Nahyan and his accompanying delegation. Nahyan arrived in Paris for a working visit on Thursday.