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A Renewed Partnership: France Reaffirms Support for Morocco’s Sahara Autonomy Plan

A Renewed Partnership: France Reaffirms Support for Morocco’s Sahara Autonomy Plan
Monday 26 February 2024 - 15:45
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France and Morocco are forging a new path towards bolstered bilateral ties following years of ambiguity and diplomatic tensions, partly stemming from disagreements over the Sahara issue. During his inaugural official visit to Morocco, French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné unequivocally backed Morocco’s autonomy initiative as the singular viable solution to resolve the longstanding territorial dispute.

In a joint press conference alongside Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita, Séjourné underscored the imperative to turn a new page and propel the France-Morocco partnership forward. "We aim to cultivate a relationship with Morocco for the next 30 years grounded in trust, openness, and mutual respect," he asserted. Regarding the Sahara issue, Séjourné acknowledged Morocco's profound attachment to its territorial integrity, affirming, "This is an existential matter for Morocco, and France pledges unwavering support."

France was the inaugural nation to endorse Morocco’s autonomy plan in 2007, a stance Séjourné affirmed remains steadfast. Bourita lauded Séjourné's "clear and unwavering" position, characterizing Franco-Moroccan relations as "unique" and "exceptional," encompassing both bilateral and regional concerns. The ministers committed to enhancing collaboration on security challenges such as terrorism in the Sahel, along with condemning the ongoing Israeli offensive in Gaza, a stance echoed by both countries.

This high-level meeting transpires as the two allies endeavor to turn a new leaf following recent diplomatic tensions, partly stemming from France's ambiguous stance on the Sahara. Observers suggest Paris now acknowledges Morocco's escalating geopolitical importance and is actively working to fortify what Séjourné termed the "renewed partnership," crucial for regional stability. With a shared dedication to transparency and mutual understanding, France and Morocco evince determination to set aside past grievances and jointly address shared concerns moving forward.


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