A Farewell to a Friend: French Ambassador Bids Adieu to Saudi Arabia
France’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ludovic Pouille, has concluded his diplomatic tenure, leaving behind a legacy of strengthened bilateral relations. Pouille expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support and contributions of Saudi friends, French citizens, and the French team in Saudi Arabia during his four-year tenure.
“Just a few days remain before our journey in Riyadh ends. Estelle and I extend our sincere thanks to all those who have supported us during our time in Riyadh,” Pouille wrote on X. “Your continued support and contributions have greatly enhanced French-Saudi friendship. These extraordinary four years will remain in our memory. Farewell!”
أيام قليلة تفصلنا عن انتهاء رحلتنا في الرياض. إستيل وأنا نتقدم بجزيل الشكر لأصدقائنا السعوديين، ومواطنينا الفرنسيين وفريق فرنسا بأكمله في المملكة العربية السعودية، على دعمهم المستمر وإسهامهم في تعزيز الصداقة الفرنسية السعودية. ستبقى هذه السنوات الأربع الاستثنائية في ذاكرتنا. وإلى… pic.twitter.com/qVwwqDQ4m7
— Ludovic Pouille (@ludovic_pouille) August 29, 2024
A Career of Diplomatic Excellence
Pouille began his career at the French Foreign Ministry in 1997. His distinguished career took him to New York, North Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf. In October 2020, he became the French ambassador to Saudi Arabia, following his successful term in the UAE.
He held numerous positions, including:
- National Service in Doha from 1995 to 1997.
- Central Administration for North Africa and the Middle East from 1997 to 2001.
- French Vice Consul in Jerusalem from 2001 to 2004.
- First Secretary at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York from 2004 to 2007.
- Central Administration Deputy Director for Egypt and the Levant from 2007 to 2010.
- Deputy French Ambassador in Rabat from 2010 to 2014.
- Central Administration Deputy Director for North Africa and the Middle East from 2014 to 2017.
- Ambassador of France to the United Arab Emirates from 2017 to 2020.
The 53-year-old diplomat has a record of notable success. His credentials include a general higher education certificate in history, a degree from the Institute of Political Studies in Strasbourg, and a postgraduate certificate in international relations.
Key Milestones in French-Saudi Relations
During his time in Saudi Arabia, Pouille witnessed significant developments in bilateral relations. Notable milestones included visits by President Emmanuel Macron in December 2021 and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to France in July 2022 and June 2023. These visits laid the groundwork for enhanced dialogue and cooperation.
Growing Economic Ties
Bilateral trade between France and Saudi Arabia has flourished in recent years. In 2023, trade reached €9.5 billion ($10.2 billion), marking an 18% increase compared to 2016, when Saudi Vision 2030 was launched. French exports to Saudi Arabia have steadily risen, with the aeronautics sector experiencing a significant surge.
Investment and Strategic Partnerships
French direct investment in Saudi Arabia is estimated at nearly $5 billion, primarily concentrated in the energy and industrial sectors. Major French companies, such as EDF, Engie, and TotalEnergies, have made substantial contributions to the Saudi economy. Pouille actively promoted French expertise and strategic partnerships aligned with Vision 2030.
Vision 2030 and Riyadh’s Global Status
Pouille recognized the transformative impact of Vision 2030 on Saudi Arabia, positioning Riyadh as a leading global city for megaprojects. He commended Saudi companies for their exceptional capabilities, stating, “No one does it better than Saudi companies.”
