France is seeking to redefine its long-term relationship with Morocco through a groundbreaking bilateral treaty. The two nations are collaborating to establish a comprehensive framework that will guide their cooperation for decades to come, addressing evolving challenges and opportunities.

French Interior Minister Sébastien Lecornu unveiled this initiative on 16 July in Rabat, following the conclusion of the 15th high-level Franco-Moroccan meeting. He led a delegation of twelve French ministers who engaged in discussions with their Moroccan counterparts.

“This treaty represents a historic milestone,” Lecornu stated in a government press release. “It will be the first agreement of its kind that France signs with a non-EU country, signaling a new chapter in our bilateral ties.”

A joint committee of French and Moroccan experts is actively drafting the agreement’s content. The objective extends beyond mere diplomatic niceties; the treaty aims to create a robust, enduring, and forward-looking partnership capable of withstanding future geopolitical shifts.

a partnership poised for expansion

This strategic move follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco in October 2024. Both governments are now focused on fulfilling the commitments made during that visit and launching tangible initiatives across key sectors.

Priority areas include strengthening collaboration in industry, energy, transportation, defense, security, agriculture, culture, and higher education. Enhanced mobility for entrepreneurs and students is also high on the agenda, fostering deeper economic and academic ties.

Lecornu highlighted Morocco’s critical role in combating transnational threats, noting the country’s effective cooperation with France against terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and irregular migration. A comprehensive security accord is in the works to solidify this alliance.

The French official reaffirmed Paris’s unwavering stance on the Sahara issue, describing France’s position as “inalienable.” He emphasized that this stance remains unchanged and will continue to shape France’s approach to its partnership with Morocco.