In a significant move to bolster their strategic partnership, Morocco and France formalized 14 cooperation agreements during the visit of French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to Rabat on Thursday. This meeting, co-chaired by Lecornu and Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, marked the 15th Morocco-France High Level Meeting, which emphasized collaboration across various sectors essential for both nations' development and mutual benefit.
The agreements span a wide range of areas, including a notable letter of intent focused on feminist foreign policy, which signals a commitment to advancing gender equality on an international scale. Additionally, an annex to a technical agreement concerning civil aviation was signed, alongside a partnership initiative between the French Maritime Academy and Morocco’s Higher Institute of Maritime Studies, indicating a strong focus on education and training within critical industries.
Furthermore, the cooperation agreements also encompass collaborations with the French Development Agency (AFD). These include a pivotal agreement related to the Rabat Regional Express Rail project and another concerning a loan agreement focused on water policy, both of which are vital for enhancing infrastructure and sustainability in Morocco.
Another significant aspect of the agreements is the declaration of intent aimed at incorporating Arabic language, history, and geography into the French education system, along with a partnership between Morocco’s Ministry of Youth and the Arab World Institute. This demonstrates a commitment to cultural exchange and the promotion of linguistic diversity within educational frameworks.
In addition to these, the two countries signed a draft framework agreement for scientific cooperation between CIRAD and the Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine, a cooperation pact between la Poste Group and Barid Al Maghrib, and a framework cooperation agreement between CEREMA and the Public Laboratory for Testing and Studies. Notably, two letters of intent were also established, one focusing on artist residencies and the other on Morocco's participation in the African authors and producers fund, highlighting the importance of cultural initiatives.
Among the final agreements were terms of reference for a bilateral defense industry committee and a technical arrangement on military archives, which further solidify the defense cooperation between the two nations. During the high-level meeting, Prime Minister Lecornu expressed his gratitude to Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan government for their warm hospitality, reflecting the positive diplomatic relations between the countries.
He acknowledged the fruitful discussions held with the Moroccan ministers and reminisced about the thrilling World Cup quarterfinal match between France and Morocco, which served as a testament to the unique friendship built on mutual respect and trust. Lecornu highlighted that both he and Akhannouch have been tasked with ensuring the successful implementation of commitments made during President Macron’s visit to Morocco in October 2024.
Emphasizing the importance of human connections, Lecornu stated that both countries are dedicated to fostering exchanges among their citizens, facilitating travel, work opportunities, and the establishment of enduring partnerships. He underscored that this commitment is reflected in France’s visa policy, which aims to promote circular mobility for those who contribute significantly to the bilateral relationship, including entrepreneurs and students, who represent the largest group of foreign students in Morocco. Furthermore, he noted the significance of leading universities and doctoral cooperation programs, as well as initiatives that acknowledge the contributions of dual nationals and advocate for the French language as a crucial factor in enhancing employability.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
