In a significant move, France and the United Arab Emirates have solidified a "strategic partnership" focused on artificial intelligence (AI), with the aim of enhancing cooperation between the two nations. French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire, during his visit to the Gulf state, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, highlighting that France has positioned itself as a leading country in Europe on AI and requires partners to further this endeavor. The agreement, signed with Khaldoon Al Mubarak, managing director of the Abu Dhabi government-controlled fund Mubadala, is expected to usher in a new era of economic cooperation in the rapidly developing AI sector. This partnership is set to encompass various areas of cooperation, including research, skill development, investment in data centers, and the semiconductor industry. Notably, the UAE has already invested in a semiconductor production plant in France, and both parties are keen on accelerating and expanding these investments to bolster their positions in the global AI landscape.

The UAE has set its sights on becoming a global leader in AI over the next decade, with significant investments and strategic initiatives in this domain. Notably, the country appointed a minister of state for artificial intelligence, digital economy, and remote work in 2017, underscoring its commitment to advancing in this transformative field. The recent agreement with France further underscores the UAE's dedication to fostering innovation and technological advancement. This AI collaboration follows a series of growing economic ties between France and the UAE, including a landmark deal for 80 French-made Rafale fighter jets in 2021, valued at around $15 billion. Additionally, France maintains a permanent military base in the Emirati capital Abu Dhabi, further solidifying the bilateral relationship.

The strategic partnership between France and the UAE extends beyond AI, encompassing a wide range of sectors such as finance, renewable energies, transportation, and spatial cooperation. Furthermore, France has expressed openness to the possibility of UAE investment in its nuclear power infrastructure, signaling a deepening of trust and collaboration between the two countries. This extension of economic cooperation is a testament to the significant opportunities both nations see in each other's economies, with a focus on innovation-led growth and mutual benefit.