France secures more diesel from Gulf nations

French President Emmanuel Macron has secured commitments for an additional 200,000 tons of diesel per month from the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, according to the Elysée Palace. The commitments include approximately 100,000 tons per month from the UAE and 100,000 tons from Bahrain, adding to the 95,000 tons already secured from Saudi Arabia for October and November.

Total diesel supply reaches 295,000 tons monthly

Combined with the Saudi commitments, France's total monthly diesel supply from Gulf nations now reaches 295,000 tons, which represents a little more than 10% of its diesel consumption in the region. This effort is intended to ease pressure on energy markets and reduce pump prices for consumers.

Kuwait to supply fuel to French territories

Kuwait has also pledged to deliver diesel and kerosene to French overseas territories in the Indian Ocean — Mayotte and Reunion — through Oman. This route avoids the Strait of Hormuz, where shipping traffic has been disrupted since the conflict between the United States and Iran began.

Efforts to lower maritime insurance costs

Discussions are ongoing with regional countries to reduce the cost of maritime insurance. Lower insurance costs could encourage companies to transport more oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been a key shipping route for global energy supplies.

Energy security and price impact uncertain

The Elysée Palace stated that these commitments would strengthen France’s energy security in the long term, but it did not specify how much they would affect pump prices. With strategic fuel reserves already released, the immediate impact on prices remains unclear at this stage.

Macron’s Gulf tour continues

President Macron is conducting a three-day visit to the Gulf region, during which he is meeting with leaders to discuss energy security and regional stability. His focus includes securing reliable energy supplies and addressing the challenges posed by the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.