The visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco, extending from October 28 to 30, 2024, is considered the first of its kind, 6 years after his last visit to Morocco. It carries great importance on several levels and is the beginning of a new page in bilateral relations between the two countries. It comes after France announced its support for the plan for autonomy in the Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty, and the visit is expected to confirm France’s support for the plan for autonomy in the Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty, which is a major shift in the French position towards this file, which reflects a shift in French policy towards Morocco. ; This would make it a historic visit and thus considered a turning point in relations between the two countries.
French support for Morocco in the Sahara issue would open new horizons for regional cooperation, and represent a strong boost in the course of bilateral relations, as both sides hope that this rapprochement will lead to strengthening regional stability in the region, and it is also expected that it will open the way for bilateral cooperation that will benefit the region and the continent. Africa in general. France needs Morocco and Morocco needs France.
This visit is important given Morocco’s pioneering role in Africa, especially after Morocco’s return to the African Union. It reflects the depth of Moroccan-French relations, which extend for decades, reinforces the strong partnership between the two countries, and comes amid optimism about the possibility of overcoming the outstanding issues and building a common basis for relations that are more balanced and compatible with new priorities.
Macron is accompanied by a large ministerial delegation, which indicates the importance of this visit in enhancing cooperation in multiple fields. It reflects the depth of bilateral relations, based on a solid and strong partnership, thanks to the common will to consolidate the multidimensional ties that bring the two countries together, and will open new horizons for economic cooperation. It is expected to sign important economic agreements. It is an official visit that comes in an increasingly important context for achieving reconciliation and restoring diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two countries, as huge economic agreements are scheduled to be signed covering various fields, including energy, infrastructure, trade and other fields, and constitute a qualitative transformation that enhances the path of strategic cooperation between the two countries and contributes to achieving development. Sustainable. France also considers Morocco a strategic partner in confronting security challenges such as illegal immigration and terrorism.
The visit will include high-level meetings, most notably the meeting of the French President with His Majesty the King, may God protect him. It is expected that the speech that President Macron will deliver before the Moroccan Parliament will be a historic speech, and it is considered one of the most prominent stations of the visit, as he is expected to review France’s vision for strengthening relations with Morocco and address it. Economic and political cooperation and the depth of the relationship between the two countries.
The timing of the visit carries important political messages ahead of the Security Council meeting on the Sahara issue, as France is a permanent member of the Council. It is also considered a turning point in Moroccan-French relations and may rearrange the cards of the Kingdom’s economic partners, which raises the concern of the neighboring country.
The Afaq Institute revealed
Institut Géopolitique Horizons, an independent center of expertise specialized in geopolitical analysis of the Maghreb, Sahel and Atlantic African regions, quoted a source at the Elysee Palace, saying that France will soon open a consulate general and a branch of the French Institute in the capital of the southern provinces of the Kingdom of Laayoune, which will constitute the first European diplomatic representation. In the Moroccan Sahara. This decision, if it happens, will be a historic decision, and will concretely confirm the French position that France supports Moroccan sovereignty over the Moroccan Sahara. The same source expected that the official announcement of this step would be made in the French President’s speech to parliamentarians today, Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the headquarters of the House of Representatives.
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**Interview with Dr. Lisa Verdier, an Expert on Franco-Moroccan Relations**
*Editor:* Welcome, Dr. Verdier. Thank you for joining us today to discuss President Macron’s upcoming visit to Morocco. This is quite a significant event, isn’t it?
*Dr. Verdier:* Thank you for having me. Yes, it really is a pivotal moment for Franco-Moroccan relations. As you mentioned, it’s been six years since Macron’s last visit, and this trip is set against a backdrop of evolving diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
*Editor:* Macron’s support for Morocco’s autonomy plan in the Sahara marks a notable shift in French policy. How do you think this change will affect bilateral relations?
*Dr. Verdier:* This shift is monumental. By endorsing Morocco’s autonomy plan, France is not only reaffirming its commitment to Morocco but also recognizing Morocco’s strategic role in the region. This move could serve as a foundation for deeper economic ties and enhance Morocco’s position as a key partner for France in Africa.
*Editor:* Speaking of economic ties, what can we expect in terms of agreements to be signed during this visit?
*Dr. Verdier:* The expectations are high. Macron is bringing a large ministerial delegation, which indicates serious intentions to bolster cooperation across various sectors. We anticipate significant agreements covering energy, infrastructure, and trade. This could potentially lead to a qualitative transformation in their economic relationship and sustainable development initiatives.
*Editor:* In addition to economic discussions, what strategies might come up regarding security cooperation?
*Dr. Verdier:* Security is indeed a critical aspect of this visit. Both countries face challenges like illegal immigration and terrorism. France views Morocco as a vital ally in addressing these issues. Expect discussions on intelligence sharing and joint initiatives that can enhance regional stability and security cooperation.
*Editor:* Do you think this visit could lead to broader implications for Africa as a whole?
*Dr. Verdier:* Absolutely. Morocco’s return to the African Union signifies its growing influence on the continent. A strengthened partnership with France may foster greater regional stability and collaboration in tackling common challenges across Africa, particularly in areas such as economic development and security.
*Editor:* Lastly, what are your hopes for the outcome of this historic visit?
*Dr. Verdier:* I hope this visit will indeed mark a turning point, addressing past grievances and setting a framework for a more balanced and modern partnership. If both nations can leverage this opportunity, it could herald a new era of cooperation that not only benefits Morocco and France but also resonates positively throughout Africa.
*Editor:* Thank you, Dr. Verdier, for your insights. We look forward to seeing the developments from Macron’s visit later this month.
*Dr. Verdier:* Thank you! I’m eager to see how this unfolds.
