Some Saudi opposition groups have been writing on social media about a new Saudi deal with France. To the tune of around $20 billion. They call it a bribe to France to support (or follow) Saudi policy on Syria and Iran and Lebanon and the Gulf, among other regional issues. This is not the first time. A few months ago they announced a $3 billion of aid for Lebanese army to buy weapons from France (only from France). I commented that the Lebanese army only reflects its sectarian and ethnic composition, so it will do the Al Saud princes no good. I wrote at that time correctly that:
“More important: it is part of their plan to reward the socialist government of France for making the right noises about Iran and Syria and Lebanon. In other words: it is a bribe to the French…………” I also commented on that deal in another posting right here.
I am beginning to suspect that if it were not for the wine industry (that includes champagne and cognac and armagnac and drambuie) and some ‘other amenities’, the Saudi King would publicly invite the French Republic to apply for membership in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Then M. Hollande (the very socialist) and his not-so petite amie du jour (quite chic et socialiste, tyvm) could show up in Riyadh wearing the shmagh (which I like in winter only) and waving the traditional sword and look as silly as the Prince of Wales Chuck did right here.
They’d be singing L’Internationale with the princes at the next annual Janadriyah hootenanny.
Cheers
mhg
