EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman
Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Oman. How does this title help you accomplish the vision, values, and strategy of the EU and support regional development?
Above all, the value of this title lies in recognition of the responsibility that the job entails, rather than the virtue of its position in the diplomatic or political hierarchy. Being the Head of the EU Delegation accredited to multiple countries means impartially and accurately representing the Union and its 27 member states through their common views, visions, and policies. As you know, the EU has a common internal market, a common visa policy (Schengen area), a common currency managed by a Central Bank, a common trade policy, a common foreign policy and many other forms of integration.
The relations between the EU and KSA are therefore wide-ranging: political and diplomatic relations, cooperation on security, trade and economy, foreign investment, cultural exchanges, etc. Promoting mutual understanding between the people of the two regions is also among the delegation’s highest priorities.
You have been appointed as EU Ambassador to the Kingdom during the unprecedented times of COVID-19. What are your reflections on the initiatives of the Kingdom to combat the spread of the virus and protect the residents and guests?
The lockdown in the country was quite short-lived, and I was lucky enough to arrive after it had been lifted. The country had done a great job at handling the contamination rates, keeping the infection in check, and providing medical care for its residents. The organized approach to the management of the virus explains the absence of a second wave in the Kingdom, as opposed to many European countries, which have fallen into a vicious resurgence of the virus.
As the host of the G20 Summit, Saudi Arabia has also taken on a leading role in providing an example for the other participating countries and assisting them with organizational and structural ideas for effective governance during the pandemic. It was extremely thoughtful of the leadership to send care packages to support the economy and hinder a possible recession. Using the chairing position, Saudi Arabia also tried to ensure that the global attention is focused on post-pandemic recovery.
Now there is good cooperation between EU and Saudi Arabia on vaccines as many of those used for the current vaccination campaign in KSA are imported from the EU. Solidarity is important, and as we say, the battle against COVID-19 can only be won if we all work together.
On the subject of the future. What is the EU vision on the collaboration with Saudi Arabia? Where do you see the strengths of the Kingdom, other than oil and energy?
Dismissing oil and energy as well-established cooperation points in a relationship with Saudi Arabia is an understandable sentiment. Yet, the dominance of the Kingdom in this market and its ability to offer mutually beneficial deals to their diplomatic partners or economic trade-dealers are unprecedented. Given the admirable commitment to sustainability, Saudi Arabia has taken on the utilization of green energy, which is environmentally conscious and a great way to diversify its economic portfolio. In an attempt to combat climate change at a larger scale, the Kingdom is planning to become the largest hydrogen supplier in the world, which is of great interest to us, as we will need great quantities of hydrogen for the Green Transition in Europe.
The ability to grow an economy, securing its stability by diversifying revenue streams and investment opportunities, makes Saudi Arabia a great economic partner. Vision 2030 is one of the largest documented development projects, which has a definitive framework for a productive economic outcome. Besides relying on green energy, Saudi Arabia has also tapped into other prospective branches of development. One of the most promising fields is tourism, and the Saudi wonders are soon going to become a top destination for European tourists. The versatility practiced by the leadership of the Kingdom is most definitely an asset.
The EU mission is not located in the Diplomatic Quarter, an area housing most of the foreign missions to the Kingdom. Nevertheless, in your opinion, how does this location enhance multilateral collaboration?
The EU delegation is in Al Mathaar District and my residence is in the DQ, which means that I have one foot there and one foot outside. It is hard not to love the DQ, as it is an epicenter of culture and diversity. The environment is simply superb. A portion of our members is seated outside of the DQ. However, thanks to the DQ authority, we will soon start building new premises in the DQ and most of my staff should be able to move there at some point.
What is the daily routine of the EU Ambassador in the DQ? Any favorite places to recommend?
I have a dog, and my day usually starts with my wife and I taking the dog on an early morning walk, while our children still sleep. The DQ is very pet-friendly! Then, we usually have coffee in one of the coffee places in Oud or Al Kindi Square. Afterward, the professional part of my day begins when I go to work and have meetings, discussions, visits, etc. In the evening, my family and I usually try to have dinner together. Although, it is not unusual to find us biking outside together.
Amazingly, the DQ is still developing, so every time there is a billboard with the promise of new construction, it is very exciting!
On May 9, to celebrate Europe Day in KSA, DQ authority placed flags and Europe Day board at the front gate.
Describe Saudi Arabia in one sentence.
Saudi Arabia is a great country with amazing people, wonderful hospitality, and delicious cuisine, but driving is as reckless as in my hometown Paris.
