Macron heads to Gulf states to secure oil supplies amid French fuel-price unrest
President Emmanuel Macron will travel to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar to obtain extra oil and diesel volumes as protests over high living costs erupt in France.
Following a weekend of unrest linked to rising living expenses, French President Emmanuel Macron is proceeding with a planned visit to Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar from Monday through Wednesday. The mission’s explicit goal is to lock in extra oil and diesel supplies that could help lower fuel prices, a key demand of recent demonstrators. Macron will travel with top representatives from TotalEnergies and Engie and will discuss strategic and economic partnerships with the host governments.
Critics such as former interior minister Bruno Retailleau and RN leader Jordan Bardella argue the president appears out of touch with domestic issues, while legal scholar Benjamin Morel cautions the trip could convey a sense of power vacuum. The visit comes as Macron’s administration, lacking a parliamentary majority since the 2024 dissolution, wrestles with budget constraints and parallel student protests. Analysts remain skeptical about securing substantial supply commitments amid regional tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on shipping lanes.
Why it matters
Securing additional oil could help curb fuel prices for French consumers while the government faces growing domestic unrest.
How this story developed
- Oct 11 Social-democratic primary for 2027 presidency delayed after cyberattack
- Oct 11 Results are expected after the Sunday voting deadline.
In this story
Related stories
17 in this thread