Chernega Vladimir Nikolaevich – Sc.D. in Law, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Envoy, Chief Researcher, INION RAS
In official French documents devoted to the strategy aimed at getting international influence, the Middle East region is among the highest priorities. Hence the enormous importance that the French Republic attaches to arms supply to the Middle Eastern states and to its military presence in the region. Both strengthen its position, giving the opportunity to feel like a high-status power. In addition, arms exports allow it to maintain its large military-industrial complex (MIC). The article examines France’s military cooperation with Middle Eastern states and their legal basis. Particular attention is paid to France’s military bases in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The current level and prospects for the promotion of French weapons in the region are considered. It is concluded that, although Paris generally maintains a fairly high level of arms supply and military presence in the region, its prospects in this regard are uncertain. On the one hand, the United States occupies dominant positions in both areas. On the other hand, in the context of the emerging multipolar world order, Middle Eastern partners are becoming more independent in decision-making, which objectively leads to a weakening of their orientation toward the West. In addition, the regional arms market is facing increasing competition from both Western and non-Western actors. Many countries, including some Gulf states, are developing their own defense industries. All this compels the French Republic to think about adapting its strategy to new realities.
Middle East region, French strategy, struggle for influence, military presence, arms exports, problems and prospects.
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