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Southern Morocco becomes a hub for Morocco-France economic partnership
The southern provinces of Morocco are emerging as a key driver in strengthening economic ties with France, opening fresh avenues for shared growth and African integration, economic leaders from both countries noted during a forum in Dakhla on Thursday.
At the Morocco-France Economic Forum, participants emphasized the pivotal role of Morocco’s southern regions in reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations. The discussion highlighted the region’s substantial investments, agricultural and energy potential, and strategic location as a gateway for African integration.
Mehdi Tazi, vice president of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), described the event as an opportunity to present the “immense potential” of the southern provinces. He noted that the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region possesses considerable agricultural resources and ideal conditions for renewable energy development, thanks to abundant sunshine and steady winds throughout the year.
Fabrice Le Saché, vice president of the Movement of the Enterprises of France (MEDEF), remarked that the presence of French business leaders in Dakhla demonstrated “a clear commitment to concrete economic cooperation based on dialogue and mutual understanding.” He praised Morocco’s development model for the southern provinces, calling it a “gateway to sub-Saharan Africa” with influence beyond national borders.
Mohamed El Kettani, co-president of the Morocco-France Business Leaders Club, underscored the symbolic significance of holding the forum in Dakhla, noting it as a sign of France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces. He highlighted French investors already active in the region, including the joint seawater desalination project by Nareva and ENGIE. “This initiative represents sustainable energy and agricultural cooperation rooted in strong partnerships and long-term vision,” El Kettani said.
Ross McInnes, co-president of the same business club, stressed the integrated industrial dimension of the Franco-Moroccan partnership, covering the full value chain from design and investment to supply, manufacturing, and export. He praised Moroccan engineering education for supporting high-tech industrial projects in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and energy. “These industries depend on the skills and reliability of Moroccan subcontractors,” he added.
Jointly organized by CGEM and MEDEF through the Morocco-France Business Leaders Club, the Dakhla forum aims to deepen bilateral economic cooperation and uncover new synergies between Moroccan and French business communities.
