New french ambassador in Rabat champions franco-moroccan method for global challenges

Philippe Lalliot, France’s newly appointed ambassador to Morocco, made his first public appearance at the spring meeting of the Paris Peace Forum, held on June 4–5, 2026 at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Rabat. Speaking the day after presenting his credentials to the Moroccan sovereign, he addressed a diplomatic audience, linking defense of international law, water cooperation, and upcoming bilateral milestones backed by a nearly €350 million program.

Amid ongoing global crises that affect every nation, Lalliot stressed the enduring relevance of multilateral rules. “International law is not dead. Its founding principles are sound. It must be defended on principle, because it is precisely the shield of those who have none,” he stated, emphasizing its role as a common good. For the diplomat, international law remains “the condition for peace, stability, and security for the greatest number.”

“We are here in the right place, at the right time, and with the right company to reflect on the ways and means by which we can together ensure that these great upheavals and transitions are addressed with concrete, realistic, and adapted solutions,” Lalliot added, advocating for “transforming our hopes and ambitions into projects and actions.”

The ambassador highlighted that addressing global imbalances and defining solutions lies “at the heart of the exceptional partnership that unites France and Morocco.” He described this “Franco-Moroccan method” as a model for others. “I am convinced that our two countries, through their shared history and common vision of these issues and the future, have a responsibility to lead by example,” he said, noting that this responsibility involves bringing people together, especially ahead of important bilateral or multilateral meetings.

Lalliot illustrated his point with the first project launched under his tenure. “Two days ago, alongside the Moroccan minister of Equipment and Water, and my German, Italian, and European counterparts, we launched a vast program of nearly €350 million to support Morocco’s national water management strategy.” This strategic initiative for Morocco’s water sovereignty aims to improve knowledge of water resources—particularly groundwater—facilitate coordinated management of climate-related water events like floods, and advance other efforts such as wastewater reuse.

As debates in Rabat conclude on energy and food security—topics central to the G7 summit in Évian from June 15 to 17—France and Morocco are preparing a new cooperation framework, with finalization imminent.