Saudi diversification drive on display in France as US reach shows limits

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Paris produced 21 agreements spanning defense, health, AI and entertainment, including a 6 billion euro deal to build three theme parks in the Paris suburbs. Analysts say the deals reflect Saudi Arabia's push to diversify partnerships beyond the United States after this year's Iran war exposed limits to American regional commitment.

Experts told AFP France offers Riyadh a nuclear-armed, UN Security Council partner willing to act somewhat independently of Washington, while still avoiding a rupture with the U.S. relationship. France separately drew credit for helping mobilize international recognition of a Palestinian state, something analysts say Washington was unwilling to offer.

The visit also drew protests in France and criticism over entrusting megaprojects to Riyadh given its human rights record, with President Macron's office responding that France doesn't 'seek to lecture others' when attracting investment. Analysts say deepening ties will require France to accept greater political risk in the region, particularly on Iran and the Palestinian question, at a time when it faces criticism for not imposing tougher sanctions on Israel over West Bank settler violence.

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