Most French people view Morocco positively, poll shows

A new poll by Ifop-Fiducial for Sud Radio reveals how French people feel about Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria. Morocco came out on top, with 68% of respondents holding a positive view of the country. 

Tunisia followed with 60%, while Algeria lagged behind at just 29%. 

Interestingly, Algeria’s score is slightly better than in 2012, when only 26% viewed it favorably.

The survey revealed how politics largely shape these opinions. 

For example, Morocco is especially popular among Green Party supporters, with 81% giving it a thumbs up. 

On the other hand, only 14% of National Rally supporters have a positive view of Algeria.

When it comes to French-Algerian relations, most people think Algeria is getting the better deal. 

Around 74% of respondents believe Algeria benefits more from the partnership, a view that has stuck around since the 1970s. 

Support for this opinion is strongest among Republicans (94%) and Renaissance supporters (91%), but much weaker among France Insoumise supporters, with only 38% agreeing.

The poll also looked at what the French think about specific policies related to Algeria. 

Two-thirds (67%) support cutting development aid, while 64% are in favor of France recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara. 

There’s also significant backing for canceling old agreements with Algeria, like the 1968 visa and family reunification deals. 

Overall, 61% support this move, with Republicans leading the charge at 79%, compared to just 35% of France Insoumise supporters.

Relations between France and Morocco have seen noticeable improvement in recent years.

A recent example of their growing cooperation is Morocco’s successful mediation to free four French nationals detained in Burkina Faso on espionage charges. 

Morocco’s intervention, led by King Mohammed VI, demonstrated its commitment to supporting France and its citizens, earning praise from French President Emmanuel Macron. 

This humanitarian act not only resolved a sensitive situation but also reinforced trust between the two countries.

France has also shown greater alignment with Morocco’s priorities, including increasing support for its sovereignty over its Sahara. 

Economic ties remain strong, with French businesses playing a vital role in Morocco’s development, particularly in infrastructure and renewable energy.