French-Morocco ties boosted as Paris and Rabat deepen cooperation
Breaking news.
During a high-profile visit to Rabat on July 16, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Moroccan authorities solidified a renewed partnership between their nations. The discussions centered on enhanced security collaboration, strategic investments, and an exceptional bilateral treaty, while sidestepping recent Pegasus spyware allegations.
Rebuilding a strategic alliance
The visit marked a pivotal moment in Franco-Moroccan relations, with Prime Minister Lecornu and Moroccan counterpart Aziz Akhannouch declaring the partnership “exceptionally positive.” This thaw follows France’s 2024 recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, which ended years of diplomatic strain. The two leaders emphasized the strengthening of ties as a cornerstone for future collaboration.
Security, energy and infrastructure take center stage
Key agreements were finalized, focusing on counterterrorism, drug trafficking prevention, and Sahel security challenges. France and Morocco also committed to deeper cooperation in energy interconnection, water projects funded by France’s development agency, and a new Rabat metropolitan rail line. A groundbreaking bilateral treaty is also in the works, with plans to sign it during King Mohammed VI’s upcoming visit to France.
Pegasus controversy remains unaddressed
The visit unfolded amid fresh reports alleging Morocco’s use of Pegasus spyware and France’s alleged interest in the tool. No official statements were made on the matter, and French officials downplayed the issue, prioritizing the reinforcement of trust and cooperation. Morocco has consistently denied the accusations, dismissing them as “false and baseless.”