France and Morocco Reset Relations With Royals' Visit to Paris
The meeting between Moroccan princesses and France's First Lady signals a thaw in relations after years of tensions.
The reception of Princesses Lalla Meryem, Lalla Asmaa, and Lalla Hasna of Morocco's royal family by Brigitte Macron at the Élysée Palace on Monday suggests Rabat and Paris are seeking to strengthen bilateral ties after over two years of disagreements.
Observers view the high-level visit as the first sign the two countries want to turn the page on their recent history of diplomatic unease relating to issues like the disputed Sahara territory and visa restrictions for Moroccans.
Political analysts say the princesses' lunch with Madame Macron – acting on instructions from His Majesty King Mohammed VI – provides a clear indication Morocco and France are embarking on a new era of their historically important relationship based on mutual understanding and consideration of each other's strategic priorities.
France's recently-appointed ambassador to Morocco, Christophe Lecourtier, reinforced this impression last week when expressing his nation's desire to repair ties by addressing contentious matters honestly, such as Sahara issue, which have proven divisive.
With tensions stemming also from controversial French policy decisions like slashing Moroccan visa quotas, observers will watch closely if cooperative gestures continue signaling Rabat and Paris charting a renewed partnership built on foundations of trust and respect.
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