The French ambassador in Morocco distances Paris from the Eurochamber’s criticism of Rabat

by time news

MADRID, 4 Feb. (EUROPA PRESS) –

The French ambassador in Rabat, Christophe Lecourtier, has disassociated France from the recent statement by the European Parliament that criticized the situation of press freedom in the country, as well as the alleged bribery scheme to gain influence in Brussels.

“The resolution of the European Parliament in no way binds France,” he pointed out in an interview with the Casablanca weekly ‘TelQuel’.

“We are responsible for the decisions of the French authorities, (but) the European Parliament is far from our authority. These are personalities who have been elected. There are diversity of groups and currents of ideas. The French government cannot be held responsible for the MEPs”, he added.

The text of the European Parliament called for respect for freedom of expression and of the media, denounced the use of the espionage program ‘Pegasus’ and also demanded “a fair process” for the imprisoned journalists Omar Radi, Sulaiman Raisuni and Taufik Buachrine. In addition, he denounced Moroccan bribes to gain influence in Brussels.

Lecourtier has recently been appointed to represent France in Morocco and intends to restore momentum to a bilateral relationship affected by the latest clashes. “I would like us to work together on the challenges of tomorrow (…). Our will would be to find the means to contribute to the success” of Morocco, he indicated.

The ambassador has mentioned three main themes around which powerful synergies could be established: “energy, industry and human capital”.

According to his analysis, the kingdom could be the big winner of the current redistribution of the cards at the geopolitical level: “For 20 years, the West has played the China card to the fullest and today we are returning. Therefore, we seek to relocate essential activities to reduce our dependency, but this concept of industrial sovereignty includes partner countries, the closest ones geographically”, he pointed out.

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