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His visit aims to strengthen ties between the two countries after years of tension, particularly over France’s stance on the disputed Western Sahara. In July, he changed Paris’ long-standing public position and backed Morocco’s autonomy plan for the territory.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Morocco on Monday where he is scheduled to discuss partnerships regarding trade, climate change, and immigration.
His visit aims to strengthen ties between the two countries after years of tension, particularly over France’s stance on the disputed Western Sahara. In July, he changed Paris’ long-standing public position and backed Morocco’s autonomy plan for the territory.
During the three-day visit to Rabat, he will meet with King Mohammed VI and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, and will also address parliament. Rabat welcomed this diplomatic shift, having already gained US recognition for its claim over the region in exchange for normalizing ties with Israel in 2020.
The former Spanish colony is largely controlled by Morocco but is claimed by the Algeria-backed Polisario Front. With Morocco the top destination for French investment in Africa, Macron’s visit is expected to open the door to future economic deals.
The North African country is a major destination for French investment in Africa, with over 900 French subsidiaries operating there. France is also Morocco’s top trade partner. Macron’s visit could also see the two countries address ongoing issues, particularly around immigration and visa policies.
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Morocco imports French cereals, weapons, and renewable energy infrastructure like turbines. France imports goods from Morocco including tomatoes, cars, and airplane parts. On Macron’s last visit to Morocco, he and King Mohammed VI inaugurated Al Boraq, Africa’s first high-speed rail line, made possible by French financing and trains manufactured by the French firm Alstrom.
