French President Emmanuel Macron accepted King Mohammed VI's invitation to make a state visit to Morocco. This meeting aims to strengthen the 'reinforced exceptional partnership' between both countries and reiterate France's support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, backing the Autonomy Plan proposed by Morocco in 2007.
France has a historical relationship with Morocco, dating back to the French protectorate between 1912 and 1956. Currently, over a thousand French companies operate in Morocco, making Rabat France's main economic partner.
During Macron's visit, 22 agreements were signed across various areas such as transport, energy, migration, and cultural cooperation. Notable is the agreement between ONCF and Alstom for the supply of high-speed trains, as well as other significant deals in the energy and aerospace sectors.
In his speech to the Moroccan Parliament, Macron reaffirmed France's support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, considering this territory an integral part of the Southern provinces of the kingdom. France joins other nations supporting Morocco's position, such as the United States, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Spain, and Israel.
The French president also addressed criticisms from supporters of the Polisario Front and the Algerian regime, reiterating that France's position is not hostile to anyone and is based on respect for the historical and geopolitical reality of the region.
In the economic sphere, Macron highlighted the investment potential in Moroccan Sahara for French companies, particularly in sectors such as solar energy, wind energy, and seawater desalination. Companies from both countries have already begun developing projects in the area.
Additionally, it was announced that the map of Morocco on the official website of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs has been modified to include the territory of Western Sahara as an integral part of the Moroccan kingdom, in a gesture of support for Moroccan sovereignty.
Macron's visit to Morocco culminated in a gala dinner attended by King Mohammed VI and members of the Moroccan royal family. This visit strengthens the economic, political, and cultural ties between both nations, consolidating Morocco's position as a regional power in Africa.
