Christian Cambon, special envoy for international relations at the French Senate and chair of the foreign affairs, defense and armed forces committee, affirmed Thursday that France refuses to be drawn into cycles of provocation over its recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, reiterating a position that has caused friction with Algeria.
Speaking to the press on the sidelines of a high-level meeting between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and a delegation from both chambers of the French Parliament in Rabat, Cambon said France remains committed to a diplomatic posture of peace and restraint.
“We in France reject being dragged into a spiral of repeated provocations,” he said, in a clear reference to Algeria’s opposition to France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory.
Addressing Algeria directly, Cambon emphasized that France’s stance is not meant to oppose Algerian interests. “Quite the opposite—we have always believed that understanding between Morocco and Algeria could transform both nations into a formidable African force, given their immense potential and capabilities,” he said.
While acknowledging that France’s position has had diplomatic consequences, Cambon insisted that his country will stand by its decision.
“The choice now lies with Algeria. We certainly accept the consequences of our decision regarding Moroccan Sahara,” he said. “But we continue to speak the language of peace.”
Cambon also noted that France is leveraging parliamentary diplomacy to promote Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara. “Through our Senate delegation, we seek to support Morocco on the international stage by advocating for autonomy as the only realistic and lasting solution for peace in this critical region,” he said. “We aim to persuade hesitant countries or those with questions.”
He reaffirmed the French Senate’s commitment to Morocco’s position, recalling the visit of Senate President Gérard Larcher, who stated that the recognition of Moroccan sovereignty is not a personal or partisan stance, but now reflects France’s official policy.
Cambon concluded by highlighting the longstanding solidarity of the French-Moroccan friendship group within the French Parliament, which has consistently backed Morocco’s territorial integrity. “This group, diverse in its political affiliations, remains united by a shared affection for Morocco,” he said.
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