In a significant diplomatic development, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, announced on Wednesday that Morocco and France are preparing to sign a groundbreaking treaty aimed at enhancing their bilateral relations. This treaty, expected to be signed during a forthcoming state visit by King Mohammed VI to France, marks a historic milestone as it will be the first treaty Morocco enters into with a European nation. Although the exact date of the King’s visit has yet to be disclosed, the discussions between the two ministers indicate a strong commitment to deepening ties.
The relationship between Morocco and France has seen notable improvement, particularly following France's recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over the contentious Western Sahara territory in 2024. Bourita emphasized that the Moroccan-French partnership is currently in its most prosperous phase across various sectors, including defense, security, and aeronautics. Barrot echoed this sentiment, stating that the upcoming treaty will not only be the first of its kind with a non-European country but will also serve as a foundation for enduring relations between Morocco and France.
While the specifics of the treaty remain undisclosed, it is clear that both nations are keen on establishing a robust framework for future cooperation. France has expressed its support for the resumption of direct negotiations concerning the Western Sahara conflict, advocating for a solution based on autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, in accordance with the latest UN Security Council resolution 2797. This stance has, however, led to deteriorating relations with Algeria, which has traditionally supported the Polisario Front—a group advocating for Western Sahara's independence.
Morocco's role as France's primary economic partner in Africa cannot be overstated. Barrot highlighted Morocco's significance as a logistical and financial hub between France and the African continent, emphasizing the natural synergy that exists between the two nations in pursuing mutual interests in Africa. As France reduces its military presence in West Africa and the Sahel, Morocco has actively expanded its influence through various sectors, including trade, fertilizers, banking, telecommunications, and construction.
As reported by middle-east-online.com.
