Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch called on France to leave its “observer“ status in the Western Sahara issue, saying the republic must keep up with the “major developments“ of the case.
In an interview with French daily L’Opinion, Akahnnouch said that “there are major developments in the recognition of the sovereignty of Morocco over our southern provinces by major world powers.”
“Paris should not simply be an observer,” said the head of the executive, as both historic partner countries undergo a silent diplomatic crisis for little over a year now.
Akhannouch explained that the economic relationship between the two countries “is not affected by the turmoil,” before reassuring: “French investors are welcome and treated on an equal footing with those of other countries.”
The paper highlighted that “the deep malaise in the political relationship with France is feared to have an impact on economic relations and the reception of French investors,” but Akhannouch assured this is far from true.
“Our economic relationship with France must develop,” he said, adding that “there has never been preserve” with regards to foreign investments in Morocco, and that “there are simply investors who are more interested in the Kingdom than others.”
Rabat expects Paris to clearly recognize its sovereignty over the Western Sahara, or adopt a position similar to that of Spain, but France has maintained its traditional stance on the matter.
“France’s position regarding the autonomy plan is favorable to Morocco. We did not change it,” said Colonna in Rabat earlier last month in a press conference.
However, President Emanuel Macron is expected to make a state visit to Morocco in February or March this year.
Last week, Moroccan Government Spokesman Mustapha Baitas announced at a press briefing that the executive did not discuss the French president’s visit to the kingdom, during its meeting on Thursday, January 12, implying the trip is not yet confirmed.
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