France's diplomatic reset with Morocco strengthens over Western Sahara recognition

French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu's first official foreign visit, a two-day trip to Morocco on July 15-16, marks the latest step in Paris's effort to consolidate its diplomatic reset with Rabat after recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over disputed Western Sahara Source: Al Jazeera. Accompanied by about a dozen ministers, the visit underscores France's effort to rebuild one of its most important partnerships in North Africa as geopolitical competition intensifies.

The diplomatic reset

Between 2021 and 2023, disputes over visa restrictions, judicial cooperation, and France's prolonged ambiguity over Western Sahara strained relations. That changed in 2024 when President Emmanuel Macron recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the territory, ending years of French ambiguity Source: Al Jazeera. The Al Jazeera article notes that the trip is seen as translating that political decision into practical cooperation.

Strategic partnership

Morocco has emerged as a key bridge between Europe and Africa through expanding trade links and infrastructure. For Paris, rebuilding relations is no longer just about repairing a historic partnership but about engaging the Mediterranean and Africa through a stable partner Source: Al Jazeera. Meanwhile, El Mundo reports that Morocco has persuaded European countries to buy into its autonomy solution for Western Sahara, with Spain and all 27 EU countries supporting the plan. The article also mentions human rights concerns, noting that this diplomatic success 'buys the silence' of European countries despite arrests of journalists and activists Source: El Mundo.