Macron arrives in Kuwait at start of Gulf tour

French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Kuwait on October 19 to begin a Gulf tour focused on regional security, defence cooperation and energy supplies.

Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah welcomed him at the airport. Macron also plans to visit the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar.

According to the Elysee Palace, a goal of the visit is to restore stability and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. France also intends to discuss securing and diversifying its energy supplies and transport routes.

Representatives of defence manufacturers and energy companies, including Engie and TotalEnergies, are accompanying Macron.

Talks in the United Arab Emirates are scheduled to cover defence, security and new technologies.