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Rabat – French MP Michele Tabarot openly criticized President Emmanuel Macron’s foreign policy regarding Algeria and expressed her concern over France’s neglect of its relationship with Morocco.
Speaking at a major political event in Le Cannet, in the Alpes-Maritimes in southeastern France, Tabarot did not mince words as she accused Macron of sacrificing the nation’s relationship with Morocco in an attempt to appease the Algerian government.
The speech, which received applause and nods of agreement from Rachida Dati, the mayor of the 7th arrondissement of Paris and a member of the conservative party, The Republicans (LR), highlighted the ongoing tension between France and Morocco.
Tabarot emphasized the importance of Morocco in France’s Mediterranean policy, stating: “There will be no Mediterranean policy without Morocco, and the President of the Republic must finally understand this.”
The MP’s stance was echoed by Eric Ciotti, president of The Republicans, who accompanied her on a recent visit to Morocco.
Read also: Visa Controversy: Tahar Ben Jelloun Says France is Sacrificing Relations With Morocco
The criticism of Macron’s Algeria policy is part of a growing tide of right-wing and far-right factions within France, which maintain that the country’s bilateral relations with Algeria have undermined its longstanding ties with Morocco.
Nicolas Sarkozy, former French president and influential political figure, has added his voice to the debate.
In his recently published book, “Le Temps des Combats,” Sarkozy expressed regret that Macron had not effectively engaged with Morocco, stating that attempts to build an “artificial friendship” with Algeria were bound to fail.
Sarkozy believes that such initiatives risked not only alienating Morocco but also failing to gain the trust of Algeria.
The debate surrounding France’s foreign policy is particularly significant in light of Macron’s efforts to reconcile with Algeria.
A state visit to France by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune was announced for this spring, but it has not been officially scheduled, reflecting Macron’s failed attempt at mending ties with either country.
Meanwhile, relations between France and Morocco have remained frosty for months, with the ambassadorial post of Morocco in France still vacant since February 2023.
