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    Macron Begins Gulf Tour Amid Domestic Unrest Over Energy Prices

    Section editor: ·Low3 articles covering this·3 news sources·Updated an hour ago·MENA
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    Map of Macron's Gulf tour route with highlights of signed agreements and protest statistics.

    What happened

    On October 19, 2026, French President Emmanuel Macron began a Gulf tour in Kuwait amid significant domestic unrest over rising living costs.

    The Context

    • Domestic unrest: Protests in France involved over 500,000 participants, leading to over 2,500 arrests and widespread violence.
    • Energy security focus: Macron's tour aims to secure energy supplies and strengthen defense ties with Gulf states amid regional instability.
    • Bilateral agreements: Eight agreements were signed covering various sectors, including defense and technology, to diversify energy sources for France.

    The Number

    Over 2,500

    arrests during weekend protests in France highlight the intensity of domestic discontent, which could influence market stability and investment decisions.

    Takeaway

    As Macron's Gulf tour concludes, expect ongoing negotiations that may reshape energy supply dynamics and economic partnerships in the region.

    3 Articles
    Emarat Al Youm

    ودّعه رئيس الدولة.. الرئيس الفرنسي يغادر الإمارات في ختام زيارته الرسمية ودّعه رئيس الدولة.. الرئيس الفرنسي يغادر الإمارات في ختام زيارته الرسمية

    French President Emmanuel Macron departed the UAE yesterday, concluding his official visit. He was seen off by Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, the President of the UAE, marking the end of a diplomatic engagement between the two nations.

    Al Watan

    ماكرون يترك احتجاجات باريس ويطرق أبواب الخليج

    French President Emmanuel Macron has chosen to visit the Gulf region, starting in Kuwait, amid ongoing protests and unrest in France. This visit highlights France's strategic interest in strengthening partnerships with Gulf nations to address interna...

    Okaz

    ماكرون: لا مبرر للعنف.. وسأزور الخليج لتأمين الطاقة

    French President Emmanuel Macron stated that there is no justification for the violence and vandalism occurring in the country, emphasizing the need to pursue those responsible legally and protect businesses from looting amid ongoing protests against...