By : Lloyd Mahachi
French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Morocco, marking a significant visit aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations. This three-day stay in Rabat is packed with high-level meetings, including discussions with King Mohammed VI and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, as well as an address to the parliament. The agenda is ambitious, focusing on strategic partnerships in trade, climate change, and immigration.
The timing of this visit is particularly noteworthy, given the tensions between France and Morocco in recent years. The primary point of contention has been France’s stance on the disputed Western Sahara. However, in July, Macron made a significant shift in Paris’ long-standing public position, backing Morocco’s autonomy plan for the territory. This move was warmly welcomed by Rabat, which had already secured US recognition for its claim over the region in exchange for normalizing ties with Israel in 2020.
The Western Sahara issue is complex and multifaceted. The former Spanish colony is largely controlled by Morocco but claimed by the Algeria-backed Polisario Front. Despite this, Morocco remains the top destination for French investment in Africa, with over 900 French subsidiaries operating in the country. Furthermore, France is Morocco’s leading trade partner, underscoring the strong economic ties between the two nations.
Macron’s visit is expected to pave the way for future economic deals, leveraging the existing strong trade relationships between the two nations. The visit may also address pressing issues such as immigration and visa policies, which have been a point of contention in recent years. By tackling these challenges, Macron aims to revitalize Franco-Moroccan relations and foster a new era of cooperation.
Key areas of discussion during the visit will include trade partnerships, climate change, immigration and visa policies, and Western Sahara. Regarding trade, Macron will seek to strengthen economic ties and explore new investment opportunities. On climate change, France and Morocco will collaborate on addressing environmental challenges. The visit also provides an opportunity to address ongoing issues related to immigration and visa policies, finding mutually beneficial solutions.
The Western Sahara discussion will build on Macron’s July announcement, supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan. This shift in France’s stance has created a renewed sense of optimism for resolving the longstanding dispute. By engaging in open and constructive dialogue, Macron and Moroccan leaders can work towards a peaceful and sustainable solution.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi