Diplomatic thaw and strategic alignment

The French-Moroccan relationship entered a new phase during Sébastien Lecornu’s visit to Rabat, where he and Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch hailed an “exceptionally positive momentum” in bilateral ties. This shift follows France’s 2024 recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara, which effectively ended years of diplomatic friction between Paris and Rabat.

Security, investment and continental cooperation

The two nations are now focusing on deepening collaboration across multiple sectors. Key priorities include joint counterterrorism efforts, combating drug trafficking, and strengthening stability in the Sahel region. Twelve cooperation agreements were finalized, covering critical areas such as cross-border electricity interconnection, water infrastructure projects funded by France’s development agency, and plans for a new commuter rail line in the Rabat metropolitan area. Additionally, preparations are underway for a groundbreaking bilateral treaty, expected to be signed during a forthcoming state visit by King Mohammed VI to France.

Pegasus controversy remains unaddressed

The visit unfolded against the backdrop of fresh allegations from an international media consortium regarding Morocco’s alleged use of the Pegasus spyware and France’s potential interest in the tool. Neither Paris nor Rabat addressed the claims directly, with French officials emphasizing a renewed focus on “strengthening trust and cooperation.” Morocco has consistently denied the accusations, dismissing them as “baseless fabrications.”