French prime minister arrives in Rabat to boost strategic ties with Morocco
The French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu landed in Rabat on Wednesday evening for an official two-day visit aimed at reinforcing the strategic partnership between France and Morocco. The visit follows a period of thawing relations between the two nations, marked by France’s 2024 recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
The Prime Minister was welcomed by his Moroccan counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch, accompanied by a delegation of twelve ministers. The two leaders will hold bilateral talks before co-chairing the 15th High-Level Franco-Moroccan Meeting, a high-level dialogue framework that has not convened since 2019.
Key agreements expected during the visit
Over the next two days, approximately fifteen agreements are set to be signed, covering critical areas such as civil aviation, infrastructure, water management, electric interconnection, defense, and culture. One of the highlights includes a strategic partnership between the Arab World Institute in Paris and Morocco’s Ministry of Culture.
The visit also paves the way for an upcoming official visit by King Mohammed VI to France, a commitment already confirmed by both sides.
Morocco as France’s strategic partner in the Maghreb
This visit underscores Paris’s intention to solidify Morocco as its primary partner in the Maghreb region. On security matters, particularly in the Sahel, France seeks to deepen collaboration with Rabat, given the ongoing complexities in its relations with Algeria, despite recent efforts to improve cooperation.
Strengthening economic and cultural ties
The agreements expected to be signed reflect a broader ambition to enhance economic integration, energy cooperation, and cultural exchange. These initiatives are designed to align with the evolving geopolitical landscape in North Africa and beyond.