Crystal Magazine Jul 10, 2026
French Consulate General in Jeddah Celebrates France's National Day and the Centennial of Franco-Saudi Diplomatic Relations
The Consulate General of France in Jeddah celebrated France's National Day on Thursday evening with a reception held at the French Residence, bringing together senior Saudi officials, members of the diplomatic corps, partners of the Consulate, and the French community. This year's celebration also marked the centennial of diplomatic relations between France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Among the distinguished guests were Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi, Governor of Jeddah, Farid Al-Shahri, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs branch in the Makkah Region, as well as several consuls general, diplomats, Saudi partners and friends of the Consulate, and members of the French community.
In his address, Consul General of France in Jeddah Mohamed NEHAD welcomed the guests and emphasized that the relationship between France and Saudi Arabia is built on trust, friendship and mutual respect. He noted that France's National Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the deep and enduring ties between the two countries and the steady expansion of their cooperation across a wide range of fields.
The Consul General underlined the special significance of this year's celebration, as it coincides with the centenary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between France and Saudi Arabia. While France has maintained a presence in Jeddah since the opening of its first consulate in 1839, he recalled that the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1926, during the reign of the Kingdom's founder, King Abdulaziz Al Saud, marked the true beginning of a lasting partnership founded on mutual respect, trust and a shared vision.
Reflecting on a century of cooperation, he stressed that the two countries have written remarkable chapters in their shared history by strengthening collaboration in diplomacy, trade, culture and education. These achievements, he said, demonstrate the strength of the Franco-Saudi partnership and the shared determination of both countries to continue expanding cooperation in support of their common interests.
The reception also provided an opportunity for Saudi and French officials and diplomats to exchange views and further strengthen dialogue in an atmosphere reflecting the depth of Franco-Saudi relations.
The evening concluded on a festive note as guests celebrated the French national football team's qualification for the semi-finals, adding an extra touch of joy to the celebration of France's National Day.
