“In a major diplomatic step reflecting a radical shift in support for the Moroccan Sahara issue, His Majesty King Mohammed VI has extended an official invitation to French President Emmanuel Macron to visit the Kingdom, as part of strengthening strategic cooperation between Rabat and Paris.”
This invitation follows France’s official recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, expressing support for the autonomy initiative under Moroccan sovereignty as a final solution to the regional dispute.
In a letter to the French President, King Mohammed VI expressed deep appreciation for France’s steadfast support for the Moroccan Sahara, considering this support as bolstering the international momentum in favor of Morocco’s position and solidifying the Moroccan plan as a primary solution to the conflict. He noted that the French recognition reflects Paris’s strong commitment both domestically and internationally, opening the door for joint efforts between the two countries to fully respect UN resolutions on this matter.
King Mohammed VI also highlighted that this recognition enhances bilateral relations between Rabat and Paris, marking a qualitative shift in international politics towards the Moroccan Sahara issue. He added that this step reflects Morocco’s growing role as an influential regional power, contributing to the political and economic stability of the Kingdom and opening new partnership opportunities with international powers.
French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed in his letter to King Mohammed VI France’s firm commitment to the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco since 2007, emphasizing that this plan forms the sole basis for a just and sustainable political solution according to Security Council resolutions. He noted that France’s support for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara strengthens its strategic position as a permanent member of the Security Council, affirming Paris’s deep commitment to this issue.
President Macron is expected to make an official visit to Morocco between September and October, with the Moroccan and French governments coordinating to prepare the details of this visit, which is anticipated to mark a new chapter in the relations between the two countries. This visit comes as part of France’s efforts to revitalize diplomatic relations with Morocco after a period of estrangement.
Bilateral relations between Morocco and France are experiencing noticeable momentum, with trade exchanges reaching a record level of 14 billion euros in 2023. Additionally, Rabat is one of the prominent African investors in France, with an investment portfolio of 1.8 billion euros in 2022.
The invitation by King Mohammed VI to President Emmanuel Macron is seen as a significant strategic step within the international escalation of support for the Moroccan Sahara issue. This escalation is clearly reflected in the recent major shifts in international politics, especially following the official French recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara. The King’s invitation to Macron highlights several key aspects:
Enhancing French Recognition: Following Paris’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara, Morocco aims to leverage this international support to strengthen its position. The King’s invitation to President Macron reflects Morocco’s high regard for this recognition and confirms Moroccan efforts to solidify this position in international politics.
Supporting Bilateral Relations: The invitation aims to bolster the strategic relationship between Morocco and France, which has experienced tensions in recent years. Macron’s visit will provide both parties the opportunity to discuss ways to enhance cooperation in economic and security fields, reinforcing the exceptional partnership between the two countries.
Achieving Strategic Gains: The anticipated visit reflects Morocco’s attempt to achieve strategic gains from the French recognition. Through this invitation, Morocco seeks to enhance the international momentum supporting its position, which could positively influence the Kingdom’s international relations and reinforce its political and economic stability.
Affirmation of International Stance: The invitation to the French President underscores a fundamental shift in the international stance on the Sahara issue, reflecting the forthcoming visit as a commitment by France to support the Moroccan autonomy plan as a final solution to the dispute. This development contributes to solidifying this stance on the international stage.
In detail, King Mohammed VI’s invitation to President Macron represents a historic opportunity for Morocco to strengthen bilateral relations with France and leverage the increasing international support for the Sahara issue, potentially leading to new strategic achievements benefiting the Kingdom.
