France and Morocco Set to Sign First Bilateral Treaty Strengthening Ties
Historic Treaty and Evolving France-Morocco Relations
By Ahmed Eljechtimi
Upcoming Treaty and State Visit
RABAT, May 20 (Reuters) - Moroccan and French foreign ministers said on Wednesday the two countries are preparing to sign a treaty to strengthen ties during an upcoming state visit by King Mohammed VI to France.
Significance of the Treaty
The treaty will be the first Morocco signs with a European country, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita told reporters after talks with his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot.
Details and Timing
The two ministers did not specify when the King's visit will take place.
Improved Diplomatic Relations
Relations between the two countries have improved since Paris recognised Rabat's sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara territory in 2024.
"Moroccan-French partnership is living its best era at all levels," Bourita said, citing defence industry, security, aeronautic cooperation.
French Perspective and Treaty Goals
Barrot also said that "this will be the first treaty of its kind with a non-European country," adding that the goal is to lay the basis for long-term relations between the two countries.
Neither party specified what the treaty implies and its details.
Western Sahara and Regional Implications
France backs the resumption of direct talks between parties involved in the Western Sahara conflict on the basis of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty and in line with the most recent UN Security Council resolution 2797, Barrot said.
This position led to worsening ties with Algeria which hosts and backs the Polisario Front, an armed group seeking Western Sahara's independence.
Economic and Strategic Cooperation
Morocco is France's top economic partner in Africa, and a logistical and financial hub between France and part of the continent, Barrot said, adding that it was "natural" for the two countries to work together in Africa.
Morocco's Expanding Influence
In West Africa and the Sahel, where France has scaled back its presence, Morocco has expanded its influence including through trade, fertilisers, banks, telecom and construction companies.
(Reporting by Ahmed Eljechtimi; Editing Chiara Rodriquez)
