France and Moroccan Sovereignty over Western Sahara: How Paris Moves Away from Algeria and Celebrates Relations with Morocco
In a notable strategic shift, France has ended its prolonged hesitation on the issue of Western Sahara by officially supporting the autonomy initiative proposed by Rabat. This decision, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Throne Day celebrations, carries multiple implications and raises questions about the reasons behind France’s change in stance amidst ongoing tensions with Algeria, which considers itself France’s “milking cow” in North Africa.
France’s Recognition of Moroccan Sovereignty: A Diplomatic Turn
In a message sent to King Mohammed VI, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that his country’s stance on Western Sahara is closely tied to Morocco’s national security. This affirmation comes at a time when the conflict has been stagnant, and France’s recognition of the autonomy initiative marks a significant shift in international policy regarding the issue. This acknowledgment bolsters Morocco’s position as a significant regional power and is expected to pave the way for new partnerships with international actors.
Settling Accounts with Algeria
The French decision also carries a clear message to Algeria, which has long supported the Polisario Front. Relations between Paris and Algiers have been notably tense, and it appears that France has opted to align its strategic interests with Morocco at the expense of its traditional partnership with Algeria. Historically considered a rich colony and a resourceful “milking cow” for France, Algeria now seeks to understand Paris’s motivations in choosing to strengthen ties with Morocco rather than maintaining its traditional stance.
Why Morocco and Not Algeria?
The French decision reflects a significant change in French policy, indicating that Paris deliberately shifted its position on Western Sahara as part of reordering its regional relationships. This shift raises several questions about France’s motives, especially regarding the choice between Algeria and Morocco. Is this solely about economic and strategic interests, or are there other political factors influencing this new direction?
Connection to Royal Celebrations
France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara coincided with Morocco’s Throne Day celebrations, a timing that carries symbolic significance reflecting the importance of this decision to the Moroccan monarch and his people. This alignment strengthens the political messages Paris is promoting regarding its support for Morocco and highlights Morocco’s prominent role in regional stability.
Algerian Pressure and Failed Threats
In this context, Algeria had exerted significant pressure on France in recent weeks, attempting to dissuade it from recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. Algeria threatened to cancel significant partnership contracts with French companies as a means of leverage, but these attempts failed, reflecting the depth of France’s commitment to its new stance.
Conclusion
France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara signals a notable diplomatic shift that may have significant implications for regional relations. While Morocco views this acknowledgment as a positive step towards enhancing its regional role, Algeria finds itself in an uncomfortable position, raising questions about the future of Paris-Algiers relations in light of these developments.
