Agadir 24 | Agadir24/UAE
French President, Emmanuel Macron, confirmed that France’s position on the Sahara issue is in the process of moving the positions of other European countries, which “have begun to change their options.”
Mr. Macron said, in an interview with the two television channels “Dozim” and “Medi1 TV”, which was broadcast yesterday evening, Wednesday, that for France, the matter is about “a firm commitment, and to be, diplomatically, alongside Morocco in order to have a present and future.” The southern provinces fall under Moroccan sovereignty.”
During this dialogue, on the occasion of the state visit he made to the Kingdom at the invitation of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the French President stressed, “This is truly an important step at the diplomatic level.” I say it very clearly for Morocco, for our bilateral relations, but also for the entire region.”
He continued, “For this reason I wanted to say this also in Parliament: It is a decision that France does not take against anyone, but it must help for better regional integration, to achieve better stability in the Sahara, and thus, in the Sahel region.”
In this context, he pointed out that “this entire region needs stability, commitment, seriousness, strength and trust,” recalling at the same time the large investments made by Morocco, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, to promote development and stability in this region, adding, “I believe that “The neighbors are aware of this.”
He continued, saying, “This position of France also constitutes a tangible commitment, meaning that the French Development and Entrepreneurship Agency will not only continue to invest, but will invest more strongly in the southern regions through important projects that benefit the population.”
For President Macron, it is also a “future choice” embodied in many important projects in different fields (seawater desalination, ports, infrastructure development, energy development…).
On the other hand, the French President focused on the “unique history” of the Kingdom of Morocco and the French Republic, reaffirming the unity of destiny that links the two countries.
In this regard, he expressed his welcome to the large number of agreements and contracts, governmental and private, concluded between the two countries on the occasion of this state visit, including the 22 agreements that were signed during the ceremony chaired by His Majesty the King and the French President, considering that these agreements are an embodiment of “For renewed confidence.”
Mr. Macron also highlighted the Kingdom’s qualifications in the field of developing and producing renewable energies and the cooperation and investment potential that this sector provides to both countries.
The French President stressed that “Morocco is one of the main producers and will be a global producer of renewable energy sources,” highlighting the “voluntary” policy of His Majesty the King in the field of developing wind and solar energies.
The French President believes that partnership and cooperation in this field would “bring mutual benefit, that is, make Morocco a major partner in removing carbon from our economy and enabling us to create wealth and value” on both sides of the Mediterranean.
Mr. Macron explained, “What I say about energy is good on both sides, and therefore, it is an equal partnership because it allows success for both Morocco and France.” I also believe that it makes our two countries platforms that provide access to two continents and with very coherent strategies.”
When referring to the warm reception he received upon his arrival to the Kingdom by His Majesty the King, members of the honorable royal family, and residents of the capital and its suburbs, President Macron described these moments as “very touching.”
Mr. Macron said, “The reception on Moroccan soil by His Majesty the King and his honorable family, a gesture that had a profound impact on me, my wife, and the members of the delegation accompanying me.” This moment was spontaneous and came from the heart.” The French President concluded by saying, “We have established a lot of things to reach this stage. Thus, I say that there is a form of spontaneity and momentum that clearly translates our relations,” adding, “that the elements of what we will continue to do are available, to preserve these relations.”
#Moroccan #desert #heart #scene
**Interview with Dr. Leila Darvesh, Expert on North African Politics**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Darvesh. Following President Macron’s recent visit to Morocco and his statements regarding the Sahara issue, how do you view France’s shifting position and its implications for regional diplomacy?
**Dr. Leila Darvesh:** Thank you for having me. President Macron’s comments underscore a significant diplomatic pivot not only for France but for European engagement in North Africa. By reaffirming Morocco’s sovereignty over the southern provinces, France is aligning more closely with Morocco’s regional ambitions. This may encourage other European nations to reconsider their positions, leading to a more unified approach towards this long-standing issue.
**Interviewer:** Macron emphasized France’s commitment to investment in the region, particularly in areas like seawater desalination and infrastructure. How critical are these investments for Morocco, and what impact might they have on stability in the region?
**Dr. Darvesh:** These investments are crucial for Morocco’s development strategy, particularly in underdeveloped areas of the Sahara. By focusing on essential projects that directly benefit the local population, France’s commitment can foster economic growth and stability. This is particularly important in a region where instability can have ripple effects across borders, affecting the Sahel and beyond.
**Interviewer:** The French President mentioned that these developments are not just for Morocco, but aim for better regional integration. What are the broader implications of this for other North African countries?
**Dr. Darvesh:** By strengthening Morocco’s position, France is also signaling a desire for increased cooperation among North African nations. A stable and economically empowered Morocco could serve as a model for its neighbors. However, it remains crucial that these initiatives embrace inclusivity, ensuring that neighboring states also benefit from regional projects, which can help mitigate tensions and foster collaboration.
**Interviewer:** Macron spoke of “renewed confidence” through the agreements signed during his visit. How important is this perception of trust in international relations, particularly in the context of historical ties between France and Morocco?
**Dr. Darvesh:** Trust is foundational in international relations. The historical ties between France and Morocco are significant, and fostering a sense of mutual respect and collaboration can enhance diplomatic relations. The agreements signed highlight not only economic cooperation but also a shared vision for a stable future in the region. Maintaining this spirit of cooperation can be pivotal for addressing complex challenges in North Africa.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Darvesh, for your insights into this evolving situation. It seems like a crucial moment for Morocco and France, as well as the broader region.
**Dr. Darvesh:** It certainly is. Thank you for having me.