In a powerful demonstration of enduring diplomatic alignment, France has once again unequivocally endorsed Morocco's territorial integrity. Speaking from the historic coastal city of Essaouira, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs issued a definitive statement affirming that the present and future of Western Sahara rest entirely within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. This crucial declaration was made following high-stakes consultations between Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccans Abroad, Nasser Bourita, and his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot.
Deepening Franco-Moroccan Strategic Partnership
The high-profile encounter in Essaouira highlights the remarkable momentum currently defining relations between Paris and Rabat. Building upon the historic state visit conducted by the French president to the Kingdom at the gracious invitation of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, both nations continue to expand their multifaceted cooperation. During their extensive dialogue, Minister Bourita and Minister Barrot meticulously evaluated the exceptional partnership linking the two countries across economic, cultural, and diplomatic dimensions.
Furthermore, both officials expressed strong enthusiasm regarding the impending finalization of a comprehensive bilateral treaty designed to institutionalize and elevate their strategic alliance. This strengthened framework aims to foster even deeper collaboration in key economic sectors, technological innovation, and cultural exchange, solidifying Morocco's position as an indispensable anchor of stability and progress in North Africa.
Commitment to the Moroccan Autonomy Plan and Regional Stability
During the discussions in Essaouira, Minister Barrot underscored that the autonomy initiative proposed by Morocco in 2007 remains the sole credible, serious, and realistic foundation for achieving a just, lasting, and mutually negotiated political settlement to the regional dispute. France also renewed its firm dedication to supporting United Nations-led processes, specifically aligning with Resolution 2797, while urging continued constructive dialogue among all concerned parties.
Beyond bilateral and regional matters concerning Western Sahara, the two ministers expanded their agenda to address pressing international developments. They engaged in detailed analyses of ongoing geopolitical challenges across the Near East, the Middle East, and the Sahel region. Minister Barrot explicitly praised Morocco’s constructive diplomatic role and reiterated France's resolve to work hand-in-hand with Rabat to foster sustainable peace and security throughout these volatile areas.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
