Rabat hosts french prime minister as franco-moroccan ties strengthen

Rabat witnessed a significant diplomatic milestone as French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu concluded a high-stakes visit, reaffirming the renewed trust between France and Morocco. The two nations showcased their strengthened alliance during a joint press briefing, marking another step in a diplomatic thaw that began two years ago.

Lecornu described the outcome of his meetings as “exceptionally positive,” highlighting the flourishing relationship since France recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in mid-2024—a decision that strained ties with Algeria. The move paved the way for French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Rabat in October of the same year, effectively ending a three-year period of diplomatic strain fueled by espionage allegations and visa restrictions.

A key highlight of the visit was the announcement of a landmark partnership between the two countries, described by Lecornu as the first of its kind outside the European Union. While no official date was set, Moroccan King Mohammed VI may soon embark on a state visit to France, further solidifying the bilateral relationship.

Among the pressing topics discussed was the Sahel security crisis, where France is increasingly leaning on Morocco for intelligence sharing and counterterrorism cooperation, especially as Algeria remains hesitant to engage. The two delegations, including twelve French ministers, also addressed visa policies, with Paris pledging to ease mobility for Moroccan entrepreneurs and students—a move aimed at mending past grievances.

cooperation takes center stage

Lecornu emphasized the “unprecedented operational successes” achieved in recent weeks through joint efforts against organized crime and drug trafficking. He underscored the importance of Africa in France’s foreign policy, noting the shared threat of jihadist groups in the Sahel and the need for coordinated action.

Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch hailed a partnership built on “strategic vision, mutual trust, and shared ambition.” The visit also saw the signing of a dozen agreements, including a call for proposals on electricity interconnection and financing deals with the French Development Agency for water projects and Rabat’s regional express rail network.

shadows of past tensions linger

Despite the diplomatic warmth, controversy loomed as international media outlets released fresh reports on Morocco’s alleged use of the Pegasus spyware. Rabat swiftly dismissed the claims as “baseless and misleading.” The issue was notably absent from the official agenda, with French officials brushing it off as old news.

The visit concluded with Lecornu and Akhannouch avoiding a full press conference, opting instead for brief statements to reporters. The two leaders described the encounter as a “turning point” in bilateral relations, with a focus on scaling up cooperation across security, trade, and regional stability.