Macron's Gulf trip aims to secure fuel supplies

French President Emmanuel Macron is traveling to the Gulf from Monday to Wednesday with the goal of securing additional oil and diesel supplies to help reduce fuel prices in France. The trip comes amid domestic unrest, with violent demonstrations over the weekend linked to the high cost of living.

Itinerary includes multiple Gulf nations

Macron's itinerary includes visits to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar, where he aims to strengthen strategic and economic partnerships. He will be accompanied by senior officials from French energy companies TotalEnergies and Engie.

Global energy challenges complicate efforts

The trip occurs amid global energy challenges, including the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which handles 20% of the world's oil, and attacks by Houthi rebels on Saudi Arabia, as well as tensions around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Macron has also decided to send French military forces to protect the Saudi oil terminal in Yanbu but will not visit Saudi Arabia during this tour.

G7 oil release unlikely to be repeated

The G7 countries, chaired by Macron this year, previously agreed to release up to 100 million barrels of oil and diesel from their strategic reserves over the next four months. However, experts remain skeptical about the likelihood of securing significant commitments during his Gulf visit.

Critics question the trip's relevance

Critics, including law professor Benjamin Morel, argue that the trip appears disconnected from the domestic crisis and may contribute to a perception of political detachment. Macron, however, has emphasized his intention to fulfill his presidential duties and act on the international stage, particularly in matters related to energy security.