What was the Ottoman Empire's relationship with the French Empire?

What was the Ottoman Empire's relationship with the French Empire?

The Ottoman Empire had a complex relationship with the French Empire. Initially, the Ottomans viewed the French as potential allies against their common enemy, the Habsburgs. This led to diplomatic and military cooperation between the two empires, particularly during the 16th and 17th centuries. However, as the French Empire expanded its influence in the Mediterranean and sought to establish colonies in North Africa, tensions arose between the Ottomans and the French. The Ottomans perceived French expansion as a threat to their own territories and interests. Additionally, the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte further strained their relationship. Napoleon's invasion of Egypt in 1798 was seen as a direct challenge to Ottoman sovereignty, leading to conflict between the two empires. Overall, the Ottoman Empire's relationship with the French Empire was characterized by periods of cooperation and conflict, depending on their respective geopolitical interests.