Historic State Visit to France by King Mohammed VI
In a significant diplomatic development, King Mohammed VI of Morocco is scheduled to undertake a state visit to Paris, although the exact date has yet to be confirmed. This visit is expected to be preceded by a meeting of the high joint committee between Morocco and France, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties. A standout event during this visit will be the signing of what is being touted as the first-ever treaty of its kind between Morocco and a European nation, as announced by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.
Strengthening Franco-Moroccan Relations
The announcement was made during a joint press conference by Bourita and his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barot, in Rabat. Bourita emphasized that the upcoming state visit will not only symbolize a strengthening of diplomatic relations but will also be marked by an unprecedented event: the signing of the Morocco-France treaty. He stressed that this treaty represents a significant milestone, being the first of its kind for Morocco with a European country.
Relations between Morocco and France have improved notably since France recognized Morocco's sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara region in 2024. Bourita remarked that the partnership between Morocco and France is currently experiencing its strongest phase across various sectors, including defense, security, and aviation cooperation. French Minister Barot echoed this sentiment, stating that preparations for the royal visit are underway and that the signing of the treaty will serve as a historical landmark in Franco-Moroccan relations.
Furthermore, the bilateral treaty is anticipated to provide a framework for Morocco-France relations for decades to come, highlighting the importance of strategic collaboration between the two nations. The Moroccan-French high joint committee is set to convene in July, chaired by the respective Prime Ministers of both countries, a meeting that has been postponed several times in the past.
On the matter of Western Sahara, Barot reiterated France's support for a resumption of direct negotiations among the conflicting parties based on Moroccan sovereignty and autonomy, aligning with the latest UN Security Council resolution. This stance, however, has led to increased tensions with Algeria, which hosts the Polisario Front, a group advocating for the independence of Western Sahara.
As Morocco continues to emerge as a key economic partner for France in Africa, this state visit promises to further solidify the logistical and financial connections between Paris and the African continent.
As reported by france24.com.
