NICE, France (AP) French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting the energy-rich Persian Gulf Friday, hoping to seal a major arms contract after this fall's Australian submarine deal debacle and to strengthen France’s role in the region.
On Friday, France signed two multibillion-dollar weapons contracts, outfitting the United Arab Emirates with 80 warplanes and 12 combat helicopters. France says the deal will bolster regional stability, while human rights groups warn of the potential abuse of power.