This visit, he indicated, opens a solemn page materialized by the signing by HM King Mohammed VI and President Macron of a declaration of great importance relating to the Exceptional Strengthened Partnership.
This document, explained the minister, “marks the expression of a renewed ambition for bilateral cooperation, firmly anchored in the principles of equality between States, transparency, solidarity and shared responsibility”.
This declaration, he added, “outlines the priority areas of collaboration – such as renewable energies or the modernization of railway and port infrastructures – called to become the foundations of an enriched and mutually beneficial relationship”.
The minister specified that “the governance of this partnership is also defined in the declaration: it will be under the direct supervision of the two heads of state and monitored by a select committee, responsible for charting innovative paths and seizing the opportunities to anchor the strengthening of this relationship over time.
The agreements signed before the Sovereign and the French President inaugurate a new generation of commitments, revealing a shared vision, noted the minister, noting that “the partnership is based on an authentic collaborative approach, a real doing with Morocco, which is about doing things together, recognizing and promoting the potential of Moroccan businesses.”
Mr. Bourita indicated in this context that “the emblematic partnerships, around the High Speed Line and green hydrogen, embody this new spirit”.
Regarding the French position on the Moroccan Sahara, the minister indicated that it is part of a global dynamic initiated a few years ago by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, marked by numerous explicit recognitions of Moroccan sovereignty. on the Sahara, through the opening of around thirty consulates in Laâyoune and Dakhla, and growing support for the autonomy plan as a solution to this regional dispute.
Within the European Union, recalled the minister, nearly 20 countries among the 27 also support this approach, noting that the French position is significant because it comes from a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, but above all of a country that knows the realities of this region and an influential actor in the EU.
The minister affirmed that “today, all the conditions are met to move forward”, noting that “the autonomy initiative benefits from the support of more than 112 countries around the world, including more than twenty countries of the Americas, including the United States, almost three-quarters of African states and member countries of the European Union.
This international dynamic, he underlined, extends to all continents and each region, regretting however that the real actor in this regional dispute continues to favor the status quo.
This immobility, he deplored, has an impact on the security of the region and a cost for the Maghreb, the Sahel, both shores of the Mediterranean, and especially for the Moroccan and Algerian people.
Referring to the challenges of regional geopolitics in light of Morocco’s initiatives, notably the Atlantic Initiative launched by HM the King with regard to the countries of the Sahel, Mr. Bourita affirmed that “in his Afro-optimistic approach, His Majesty King Mohammed VI has always refused to see the Sahel as inevitable. This is why he has visited Mali 4 times since 2012, investing massively in the training of more than 500 imams at the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training of Imams and initiating numerous development projects, in addition to the presence Moroccan in the banking and economic sector.
It is in this spirit, explained the minister, “that the Royal initiative was launched, offering Sahel countries access to Moroccan ports, storage areas, logistical infrastructure, optical fiber, and in accompanying them through customs procedures. The idea is to open up the Sahel, to get it out of its isolation.”
The minister noted that reactions to this royal initiative have been very positive: 3 ministerial meetings have already taken place and task forces have been established by the Heads of State concerned to promote ownership of this initiative. A reference document has been produced and will soon be submitted to the Heads of State for approval, with projects to be launched in the short, medium and long term.
He noted to this effect that “France, also involved in this region, is pursuing its objectives, but with an approach of its own”, adding that “the common objective remains the stabilization of the Sahel, with deep respect for the choice of its peoples and with the firm desire to promote their development.
Interview: Strengthening Franco-Moroccan Relations – A New Era of Cooperation
Editor (Time.news): Welcome to this special interview segment! Today, we are joined by [Expert’s Name], a renowned expert on international relations, particularly focusing on Franco-Moroccan relations. Thank you for being here, [Expert’s Name].
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such a pivotal moment in the relationship between Morocco and France.
Editor: Recently, King Mohammed VI and President Macron signed a significant declaration regarding an “Exceptional Strengthened Partnership.” Can you elaborate on the main goals of this partnership?
Expert: Absolutely. This declaration marks a key moment in bilateral relations, emphasizing cooperation rooted in mutual respect and shared responsibilities. Key areas identified include renewable energy and the modernization of infrastructures, such as railways and ports. This partnership aims to enhance economic interdependence while fostering sustainability.
Editor: That sounds promising! The minister mentioned that this partnership would be governed under the supervision of both heads of state and monitored by a select committee. How does that impact the effective implementation of the agreements?
Expert: Governance is crucial in any international partnership. By having the direct involvement of both leaders, it ensures that there is a high level of accountability and commitment. The select committee will allow for innovative approaches to be explored, keeping the partnership dynamic and responsive to emerging opportunities. This framework can significantly enhance the likelihood of success in their collaborative initiatives.
Editor: The minister also highlighted a focus on Moroccan businesses and an authentic collaborative approach. How does this serve Morocco’s economic interests?
Expert: This shift towards a more inclusive approach is vital for Morocco. By recognizing and promoting local businesses, the partnership can stimulate growth and innovation within Morocco. Projects like the High-Speed Line and endeavors in green hydrogen are perfect examples of tapping into Morocco’s potential while bringing in technological know-how and investment from France. This is set to create jobs and foster a more robust economic landscape.
Editor: The article discusses the Moroccan Sahara and France’s supportive stance on Moroccan sovereignty. What do you make of this position, especially in the context of regional politics?
Expert: France’s position is quite significant given its historical ties and current role within the United Nations Security Council. As the minister pointed out, many countries support Morocco’s autonomy plan as a resolution to this ongoing dispute, which adds weight to Morocco’s claims. However, the stagnation from certain parties in the regional dispute is concerning. It not only hampers progress but affects the overall security dynamics in the region.
Editor: You mentioned the impact on regional security earlier. What implications could this renewed partnership have on the broader Sahel and Maghreb regions?
Expert: A strengthened Franco-Moroccan partnership could set a precedent for collaboration in the region, potentially encouraging other nations to pursue more cooperative approaches. Particularly in the Sahel, where security threats are prevalent, a more stable North Africa could lead to increased regional security. However, challenges remain, especially concerning relationships with neighboring countries like Algeria, which still has lingering tensions regarding the Western Sahara issue.
Editor: With the global and regional dynamics constantly evolving, what do you see as the next steps for both Morocco and France in this partnership?
Expert: I believe we will see both nations focusing on concrete projects in the immediate future, particularly in transferable technologies and sustainable energy. Long-term, they’ll need to navigate the geopolitical landscape carefully, especially with regard to regional tensions and external influences. By promoting stability and cooperation, both Morocco and France could emerge as influential leaders in their respective regions.
Editor: Thank you so much, [Expert’s Name], for your insights today. This partnership indeed represents a significant step forward for both nations, and it will be interesting to see how it unfolds.
Expert: Thank you for having me; I look forward to following this partnership’s progress.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for joining us in this discussion on the evolving relationship between Morocco and France. Stay tuned for more updates!