French President Emmanuel Macron will begin a three-day state visit to Morocco on Monday. This visit is intended to mend years of strained relations between France and Morocco.
Macron’s trip follows an invitation from Moroccan King Mohammed VI extended in late September. The French presidency described the visit as a move to establish “new ambitions for the next 30 years” of France-Morocco ties.
Morocco’s royal palace stated that both countries share a “rooted and solid partnership.” They expressed mutual intentions to “strengthen the ties” between them.
France and Morocco’s relationship has faced challenges, partly due to France’s ambiguous stance on Western Sahara. This former Spanish colony, largely controlled by Morocco, is also claimed by the Algeria-backed Polisario Front, which seeks independence for the region.
In July, Macron took a step to ease these tensions by endorsing Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara as a resolution framework.
Khadija Mohsen-Finan, a political scientist, said this visit signifies both nations’ willingness to resolve past disputes. She highlighted that the visit indicates a shift toward stronger diplomatic ties.
During the trip, Macron and King Mohammed VI are set to meet for one-on-one talks. They will sign multiple agreements focused on cooperation in energy, water, education, and security.
The two countries also had a dispute in 2021 when France halved visa quotas for Moroccans, a policy it reversed a year later. Macron’s office described Morocco as a potential “hub between Europe and Africa,” particularly in terms of infrastructure and electricity.
Improving ties with Morocco may also help France strengthen its influence in Africa and the Sahel, where Morocco continues to expand its own presence.