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Join on Telegram Rabat – In a diplomatic discourse highlighting the intricacies of Franco-Moroccan relations, French Ambassador to Morocco Christophe Lecourtier emphasized the necessity of clarifying France’s stance on the Western Sahara issue, asserting that envisioning a collaborative future without addressing this crucial matter would be both futile and disrespectful.
Amidst a seminar on Franco-Moroccan ties at the Faculty of Legal, Economic, and Social Sciences of Ain Chock, Ambassador Lecourtier underscored the imperative of addressing Morocco’s significant concerns regarding the Western Sahara issue, which he acknowledged as pivotal for the kingdom’s past, present, and future.
Stressing the essence of dialogue and partnership, he stated, “how can we claim to have such ambitions without considering the major concerns of the kingdom on the matter?”
Lecourtier’s remarks come within the backdrop of Paris’s expressed desire to foster warmer bilateral relations with Morocco.
This intent was echoed by French Minister of Foreign Affairs Stéphane Séjourné who affirmed his commitment to bridging the gap and rebuilding trust between the two nations.
Séjourné, who assumed office in January, last week expressed President Macron’s personal directive to improve Franco-Moroccan ties, emphasizing the need to start a new chapter in their relationship.
Acknowledging the enduring support for Morocco’s autonomy plan since 2007, Séjourné reiterated France’s readiness to move forward on the Western Sahara issue.
He emphasized the strategic importance of Franco-Moroccan relations, characterizing them as “essential” and underscoring his determination to nurture a climate of mutual trust.
Read also: House of Lords Member Urges UK To Recognize Morocco’s Sovereignty Over Western Sahara
In his pursuit of a redefined political agenda, Séjourné advocated for transparent dialogue with Moroccan political stakeholders, respecting the diversity of perspectives within the nation’s political landscape.
He articulated his aspiration to gradually construct a framework of trust, citing it as a shared interest of both France and Morocco.
As France and Morocco navigate the intricacies of their partnership, the reaffirmation of commitment from French officials signals a potentially pivotal moment in their diplomatic discourse.
By addressing contentious issues such as the Western Sahara dossier with clarity, both nations appear to lay the groundwork for a more robust and resilient partnership in the years to come.
