France's Commitment to Moroccan Sovereignty in the Sahara Region
In a significant diplomatic engagement on Wednesday in Rabat, French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, articulated France's unwavering support for Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara region. This statement followed his discussions with Nasser Bourita, Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates. Barrot emphasized the strategic importance of the Sahara issue not only to France but also to the broader regional stability, reiterating the position articulated by French President Emmanuel Macron in a letter addressed to His Majesty King Mohammed VI on July 30, 2024. In this correspondence, President Macron affirmed that the present and future of the Sahara territory must be situated within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty.
Support for the Autonomy Plan and Economic Engagement
During the press briefing, Barrot expressed France's endorsement of Morocco's autonomy plan, highlighting it as the sole foundation for a fair, enduring, and negotiated political resolution to the Sahara conflict. He pointed out that the UN Security Council's Resolution 2797 aligns with this perspective, and he praised the recent positive developments, including the revival of direct dialogues among all parties involved, centered around the autonomy proposal. In terms of practical measures to bolster this stance, Barrot announced that France has enhanced its consular presence and expanded cultural initiatives within the region. This includes the inauguration of a visa application center, the launch of an 'Alliance Française' in Laayoune, and the establishment of a new educational institution. He also noted that French companies are actively investing in the Sahara, supported by the French Development Agency, which continues to foster economic collaboration in the area.
As reported by diplomatie.ma.
