Rabat – French Senate President Gerard Larcher renewed his country’s support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over its southern provinces in Western Sahara during a visit to the country.
Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita welcomed Larcher, who is on a visit to Morocco to discuss the growing partnership between Morocco and France, particularly in Africa.
Larcher said that the objective of his visit is to open a “new parliamentary chapter” in the evolving relationship between the two nations, emphasizing that it aligns with the vision of King Mohammed VI.
“We discussed the prospect of developing these new channels and networks, particularly towards the southern Atlantic coast, which was a key topic in our discussions,” Larcher stated during a joint press conference.
Larcher also recalled Emmanuel Macron’s statement during his historic visit to Morocco in October.
He said that the “present and future of the Sahara fall under Moroccan sovereignty,” noting that the partnership between Paris and Rabat includes 47 projects in the fields of energy, infrastructure, transportation, and water management.
In a speech as part of his official visit, Macron told the Moroccan parliament that the new Sahara position will be implemented in international forums, noting that operators and businesses from France will continue supporting the development of Morocco’s southern provinces through investments and sustainable initiatives.
He also addressed Algeria’s frustration over the French decision, noting that the new position is “not hostile to anyone.”
The newfound French position on the Sahara is rooted in history and respectful of realities, Macron emphasized.
Tensions between France and Algeria reached new heights after France revised its diplomatic position on the Sahara dossier. The North African country recalled its ambassador to France, condemning the decision as being against international law.
Tensions between the two countries escalated due to Algeria’s decision to refuse entry of Algerians subject to deportation from France.
One of the individuals who had previously been refused deportation by Algiers was involved in a stabbing attack in France on Saturday.
The suspect of Algerian origin stabbed a person and injured five police officers in Mulhouse.
“French authorities made ten requests for consular passes to expel the attacker from Mulhouse, an Algerian national,” Retailleau said, adding that “he is an individual who should have been accepted by Algeria and Algeria refused him.” “It’s time to change gears with Algeria,” he added.
