Russia

Political relations

The relationship of confidence between France and Russia was undermined by the annexation of Crimea and the conflict in Donbass, which led to the introduction by the European Union of sanctions against Russia and the country’s suspension from the G8. However, the authorities maintain very regular dialogue at the highest level with Russia, in particular to resolve the crisis in Ukraine. The Franco-Russian Economic, Financial, Industrial and Trade Council (CEFIC) has resumed periodic meetings since January 2016. The latest meeting of the Committee took place on 17 December 2018 in Paris.

Economic relations

Trade between France and Russia grew in 2017, increasing by 26% to €13.2 billion. This is explained by a jump in French imports (up 37% to €7.59 billion), partially linked to the increase in oil prices and the continued growth of French exports (up 14% to €2.25 billion). French companies are present in a variety of sectors and are particularly well established in the agrifood, financial and banking sectors, as well as distribution, energy and the automobile industry. Outside of tax incentive zones, France was the second foreign investor in Russian stock at the end of 2016, behind Germany. It was the leading provider of FDI flows, as in 2015.

Further information on the sanctions (in French)