PARIS: A high-level UAE delegation has completed a three-day official visit to France aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in clean energy, with a strong focus on hydrogen, nuclear energy, sustainable fuels, and energy transition strategies. The visit was designed to share knowledge and explore innovation in support of sustainable development goals.
Led by Eng. Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the UAE delegation included officials from various federal bodies and leading national energy companies. Discussions focused on key sectors such as hydrogen production, nuclear technology, decarbonisation strategies, and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) development.
The clean energy partnership between the UAE and France was discussed during a private meeting at MEDEF International in Paris. French participants included top representatives from energy giants such as HY24, EDF Renouvelables, Engie, Technip Energies, and Dassault Systèmes. Experts from the French nuclear industry, including CSFN, ORANO, CEA, and Newcleo, also presented their latest innovations in small modular reactors and nuclear fuel management.
During the meetings, the UAE delegation outlined the country’s hydrogen strategy and clean energy goals. In return, French officials shared their progress on hydrogen development projects and national decarbonisation policies.
Eng. Al Olama said, “France is a key partner in the UAE’s transition to clean energy. This visit allowed us to exchange ideas, explore best practices, and strengthen our cooperation in new energy sectors. Our joint projects will help build better, more sustainable energy systems for the future.”
The UAE delegates also visited key innovation hubs, including Schneider Electric’s digital energy transformation centre and the research labs of Air Liquide. These site visits offered a closer look at cutting-edge AI-based energy optimisation and gas technologies for both industry and healthcare.
The clean energy partnership was further discussed with major French players such as Airbus, Total Energies, Safran, and Bureau Veritas. The agenda also included SAF policy dialogue between UAE and French civil aviation authorities, with both sides sharing plans to reduce aviation sector emissions.
The final day of the tour took the delegation to Toulouse, where they toured Airbus’ mock-up centre and its A350 Final Assembly Line. They also engaged with UAE students currently interning with Airbus.
The UAE and France enjoy a strong and growing relationship, with clean energy playing a central role in their shared sustainability vision.
