France’s shifting Middle Eastern alliances

France's approach to the Middle East is pragmatic, including a mix of continuity and change. Economic, energy and security interests prevail, with Paris strengthening its military footprint in the region to cope with growing jihadist threats. France is prioritising cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Algeria and works closely with the US. Upholding stability is the driving objective, while commitment to democratic reforms across the region is very uneven.

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