The energy crisis was at the center of UAE President Sheikh Muhammad Bin Zayed’s visit to France this week. Global oil and gas flows have been distorted by the fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and resultant sky-high energy prices are contributing to inflationary pressures in key consumer countries.
European states are looking to the Middle East to replace Russian energy supplies (MEES, 27 May), and France is no exception. As Opec’s third largest producer, the UAE is in a strong position to help, and it is striking that Sheikh Muhammad made France the venue for his first overseas state visit since becoming president in May. (CONTINUED - 901 WORDS)
