Morocco has taken center stage in France’s diplomatic agenda across the Maghreb, marking a clear shift in Paris’ regional priorities. This strategic alignment comes ahead of a two-day official visit by French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, scheduled for July 15 and 16. His trip, the first international engagement since assuming office, underscores the depth of bilateral relations between the two nations.
Lecornu’s delegation, comprising over a dozen ministers including Foreign Affairs representative Jean-Noël Barrot and Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, will hold bilateral discussions with Moroccan counterpart Aziz Akhannouch. The meeting will culminate in a joint press conference, followed by an official luncheon, reflecting the importance placed on this diplomatic engagement.
The itinerary also includes a high-level meeting between French and Moroccan delegations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a ceremonial tribute at the Mohammed V Mausoleum. During a recent Senate session in Paris, Lecornu highlighted the exceptional levels of police and judicial cooperation with Morocco, emphasizing the strength of this partnership.
Strengthening parliamentary ties in a new era of cooperation
Lecornu also welcomed a delegation of Moroccan parliamentarians invited by Senator Christian Cambon, chair of the France-Morocco Friendship Group. The group engaged with French MEPs including François-Xavier Bellamy (Vice-President of the European People’s Party Group), Pierre Jouvet (Vice-President of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats Group), and Fabienne Keller, Quaestor of the European Parliament.
Bellamy praised the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation between Morocco and France, describing the Kingdom as a model of openness, dynamism, and progress. He noted Morocco’s comprehensive development initiatives, stressing that the European Union must acknowledge the efforts of a reliable and committed partner.
On territorial integrity, Bellamy reiterated France’s stance, stating that Paris recognizes Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, in full compliance with international law.
Jouvet, for his part, described Morocco as an essential geopolitical partner for both France and Europe. He emphasized the need to further solidify bilateral relations and safeguard the achievements of their strategic partnership.
