France prioritizes Morocco in Maghreb diplomacy amid high-level talks

The Kingdom of Morocco has taken center stage in French diplomacy in the Maghreb, marking a clear shift from Paris’s traditional balancing act in the region. This strategic pivot becomes evident ahead of the two-day official visit by French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, scheduled for July 15 and 16.

Lecornu’s first international trip since assuming office underscores the importance of this engagement. Accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, the French Prime Minister is set to meet his Moroccan counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch, for bilateral discussions. The agenda will culminate in a joint press conference and an official luncheon.

The visit’s official program includes a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mohammed V Mausoleum and a high-level meeting between French and Moroccan officials at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Lecornu has already highlighted the exceptional quality of cooperation between the two nations, particularly in policing and judicial matters, during a recent address to the Senate.

French and Moroccan lawmakers have also engaged in parallel discussions, reflecting the robust parliamentary ties between the two countries. A Moroccan delegation, led by Mohamed Zidouh, President of the Morocco-France Friendship Group in the Chamber of Counsellors, met with French Members of the European Parliament, including François-Xavier Bellamy (EPP Vice-President), Pierre Jouvet (S&D Vice-President), and Fabienne Keller (MEP).

Bellamy emphasized the “depth of friendship and cooperation” between Morocco and France, describing the Kingdom as a model of openness, dynamism, and progress. He praised Morocco’s “comprehensive development drive” and urged the European Union to acknowledge the country’s commitment to international obligations.

Highlighting Morocco’s territorial integrity, Bellamy reiterated “France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara”, framing it as a position aligned with international law.

Pierre Jouvet, for his part, called Morocco “an indispensable geopolitical partner for both France and Europe”, stressing the need to strengthen bilateral relations and safeguard existing achievements.