During an official visit to Rabat, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized the need to strengthen Franco-Moroccan relations. A series of fifteen agreements is set to be finalized, marking a significant step in the bilateral cooperation established since 2024.
Expanding cooperation across key sectors
At the opening of the 15th High-Level Meeting between France and Morocco, Prime Minister Lecornu described the occasion as a “turning point” in bilateral relations. He urged both nations to “scale up” their collaboration, particularly in security, counterterrorism efforts, and joint initiatives across Africa. His Moroccan counterpart, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, echoed this sentiment, stressing the urgency of accelerating the implementation of commitments made under the exceptional strengthened partnership agreement signed in 2024.
Fifteen agreements to reshape bilateral ties
The two governments are poised to sign agreements spanning economic, security, migration, cultural, and defense sectors. Key projects include the development of a new Rabat regional express rail line, arms industry partnerships, and expanded cultural exchanges. This visit may also lay the groundwork for a future state visit by King Mohammed VI to France, potentially culminating in the signing of an unprecedented friendship treaty, as proposed by Lecornu.
A partnership forged amid ongoing scrutiny
This visit follows a period of stabilized relations between Paris and Rabat since France recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2024. However, the trip is overshadowed by fresh reports from a media consortium alleging Morocco’s alleged use of the Pegasus spyware. Neither the French government nor the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has commented on these claims, reaffirming their commitment to advancing the strategic partnership with Morocco.