France’s newly appointed Foreign Minister Stephane Séjourné, said that it’s necessary to forge a new chapter in Franco-Moroccan relations, stating, “It’s time to move forward.”
Séjourné, who assumed his role on January 12th, has vowed to personally oversee efforts to improve relations between France and Morocco, following a period of strained ties.
In an interview with the regional newspaper Ouest France, Séjourné said on Saturday that President Emmanuel Macron had tasked him with enhancing bilateral ties with Morocco.
“I’ve been in touch with the Moroccans several times since I arrived.The President personally requested my involvement in strengthening Franco-Moroccan relations and initiating a new phase in our relationship. I’m committed to this task,” Séjourné further added.
The FM expressed his commitment to this endeavor and highlighted France’s long standing support for Morocco, particularly on sensitive issues like the Western Sahara conflict.
“France has always been present, even on the most sensitive issues such as Western Sahara, where France’s clear and consistent support for the Moroccan autonomy plan has been a reality since 2007. We add that it is time now to move forward. I will do everything in the coming weeks and months to bring France and Morocco closer together, (…) with respect for the Moroccans,” said the minister.
Tensions between the two countries have escalated in recent years, partly due to France’s efforts to strengthen relations with Algeria, Morocco’s neighbor. The rupture of diplomatic ties between Algeria and Morocco in 2021 further exacerbated the situation.
Séjourné’s announcement comes against the backdrop of strained relations, underscored by controversies such as France’s offer of assistance to Morocco after an earthquake in September, which was rebuffed by Rabat.
However, signs of improvement emerged in November when the French ambassador to Morocco publicly apologized, and a new Moroccan ambassador was appointed to France after a prolonged vacancy.
Séjourné’s pledge to prioritize Franco-Moroccan relations signals a renewed commitment to diplomacy and cooperation between the two countries, with hopes for a more constructive and collaborative future.
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