Saudi Gazette report

PARIS — As part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha held a series of strategic meetings in Paris with leading French research institutions and global technology firms.

The minister began his engagements with Dr. Bruno Sportisse, CEO of INRIA, France’s national institute for digital sciences and technology.

The two sides discussed potential partnerships in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and robotics, including the establishment of joint research labs and researcher exchange programs aimed at talent development.

In a separate meeting with Arthur Mensch, CEO of Mistral AI, Alswaha reviewed areas of collaboration in the development of open-source large language models (LLMs) and enhancing innovation in generative AI.

Alswaha also met with Marie-Laure Denis, President of the French Data Protection Authority (CNIL), to explore cooperation in data governance and protection.

The discussion included Saudi Arabia’s regulatory frameworks and international initiatives to promote responsible use of emerging technologies.

Additionally, the Saudi delegation held talks with Patrice Caine, Chairman and CEO of Thales Group, on collaboration in intelligent systems and space technologies.

The discussions focused on supporting Saudi Arabia’s priorities in building robust digital infrastructure and advancing its high-tech industrial base.