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The Saudi Press Agency reported that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received the call from Macron, during which the two leaders examined recent shifts across the Middle East and their wider effects on stability. They coordinated on steps to bolster security and calm throughout the region while guaranteeing safe and unrestricted maritime navigation, especially in vital corridors. The discussion extended to several other issues of mutual interest as the countries maintain close diplomatic alignment.
Macron subsequently detailed aspects of the exchange in a post on X, linking distant energy pressures to rising fuel costs within France. “When oil comes under pressure, fuel prices rise at the pumps,” he said, adding that he fully understands the consequences for French citizens since events far away routinely shape daily life. He framed the calls, which also included Qatar’s emir, as centered on restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, shielding partners’ energy infrastructure and securing output to safeguard supplies.
The conversation builds directly on the Crown Prince’s official visit to Paris on August 23-24, 2026, when the two leaders released a joint statement that reaffirmed their strategic partnership. That document, issued by the French presidency and Saudi authorities, marked the centenary of formal ties between the two nations and launched the first session of their Strategic Partnership Council. It outlined fresh initiatives spanning defense, investment, energy, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
The August joint statement expressed a common outlook for Middle East stability rooted in respect for state sovereignty, international law and diplomatic resolutions to conflicts. On Iran, both sides stressed the value of a negotiated path to avert further escalation and reconfirmed support for a peaceful nuclear program, while calling on Tehran to restore full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. They jointly denounced attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and urged restoration of normal, unimpeded navigation as it existed prior to February 2026.
Bilateral trade between France and Saudi Arabia totaled approximately 11.8 billion dollars in 2025, the joint statement noted, illustrating the economic foundation that underpins their frequent security consultations. The partnership framework itself traces back to a French presidential visit to the Kingdom in December 2024 that injected new momentum into relations. Regular leader-level contacts since then have enabled alignment on files ranging from Gulf security to the situation in Lebanon.
The latest call occurs against a backdrop of elevated risks to global energy flows that have contributed to higher prices, prompting France to pursue alternative routes and reinforce alliances dedicated to navigational freedom. France’s foreign minister had remarked during a recent trip to Israel that any enduring regional settlement depends on fundamental changes in Tehran’s posture. Such diplomatic coordination between Paris and Riyadh forms part of broader efforts to address these challenges through established channels.
