France's Bold Move: A New Chapter in the Sahara Dispute

Wednesday 07 August 2024 - 11:30

In an exclusive conversation with Le Point Afrique, Xavier Driencourt, the former French Ambassador to Algeria, shed light on a pivotal diplomatic shift. France's recent acknowledgment of Moroccan sovereignty over Sahara is expected to trigger a wave of similar recognitions across Europe.

Driencourt asserted that this strategic development edges Morocco closer to resolving the protracted territorial conflict. "Yes, it’s a fact," he confirmed, when queried about Morocco's progress towards a final resolution.

This perspective aligns with President Emmanuel Macron’s recent communication to King Mohammed VI, where he affirmed that the future of Sahara is intrinsically linked to Moroccan sovereignty. The decisive language employed by Macron underscores the significance of this move.

Driencourt emphasized the importance of the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, which Macron described as "the only basis" for settling the Sahara issue. Historically, France has balanced its diplomatic relations between Algiers and Rabat. However, recent tensions required a recalibration, prompting Paris to take this substantial diplomatic step toward Morocco.

The former ambassador predicts that France's stance will influence other European nations. "The fact that France is making this important diplomatic advance will have a domino effect on other European countries," he remarked. He anticipates that France's familiarity with the Maghreb will encourage other nations to follow suit.

This shift reflects a growing international endorsement of Morocco’s autonomy proposal. Countries like the United States, Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands have already recognized it as a viable solution to the Sahara dispute.

With France now supporting Morocco's territorial claims, Driencourt foresees enhanced opportunities for French businesses in the region. Looking ahead, the upcoming 2030 World Cup and various development projects signal a promising future for Franco-Moroccan collaboration.

This diplomatic evolution marks a significant turning point, potentially shaping the geopolitical landscape of North Africa and beyond.