The United Arab Emirates ordered 80 Rafale fighter jets and 12 military helicopters on Friday, strengthening economic and political relations with France through an arms contract worth $17 billion euros ($19 billion).
The deal which is considered largest ever overseas sale of French military plane was finalised as French President Emmanuel Macron embark on his two-day trip to the Gulf.
The French presidency said that deal was signed between Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and Macron on the sidelines of the Dubai Expo 2020.
“This contract cements a strategic partnership that is stronger than ever and directly contributes to regional stability,” the French presidency stated in a statement.
In the wake of Macron’s Gulf visit, Arab Gulf states have expressed skepticism about the United States’ focus on the region while seeking more weapons from their key ally.
