FM Bourita calls for renewal of Morocco-France ties amid regional, international developments
Morocco and France whose relations are “unique, unparalleled, and deeply rooted in history,” are called upon to renew these relations and to adapt them to various developments at the bilateral, regional, and international levels, said Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita on Monday.
Bourita, who was speaking at a joint press conference following a one-and-a-half-hour one-on-one meeting with his French peer Stéphane Séjourné, said, banking on mutual interests in various fields, Rabat and Paris maintain state-to-state relations, and are expected to renew these relations within the framework of mutual respect and close coordination. France is a privileged partner of Morocco on the political, economic, and human levels, he noted.
Bilateral relations are currently in a “renewal and development phase in terms of content, approaches, and actors to align with the changes on the international scene and the developments in both countries,” he added.
He also pointed out that Séjourné’s visit to Morocco reflects the firm determination of King Mohammed VI and French President Emmanuel Macron to boost the bilateral strategic partnership on strong foundations, capitalizing on the solid historical and human bases underlying these relations, while benefiting from the achievements recorded in this partnership over decades.
The minister highlighted that thanks to the reforms initiated under the guidance of King Mohammed VI, both politically and economically, Morocco now positions itself as a reliable and credible actor among its partners, having become a pole of stability, a political force, and a crucial player in its environment.
Bourita also mentioned that discussions with Séjourné provided an opportunity to discuss bilateral relations in anticipation of upcoming milestones between the two countries.
Emphasis was placed on the importance of preparing for these milestones by supporting the exchange of sectoral ministerial visits and exploring new horizons for the conclusion of agreements and initiatives to strengthen these ties and initiate a true turning point in bilateral relations, he further noted
The talks also covered regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East, the catastrophic humanitarian repercussions of the Israeli aggression against Gaza, and the means to establish a ceasefire, ensure the delivery of aid, facilitate the creation of conditions for a political process, reject the forced displacement of Palestinians, and preserve the Arab-Islamic identity of Al-Quds, the minister continued.
Morocco warns against actions and decisions that could exacerbate tensions during the month of Ramadan around the Al-Aqsa Mosque in the city of Al-Quds, he insisted.
Bourita also indicated that he discussed with his French counterpart ways to strengthen joint action in Africa and the Sahel region.
The French top diplomat also voiced his country’s determination to open a new chapter in the relations between the two countries and build a partnership with Morocco for the next 30 years.
Prior his visit to Rabat, Séjourné told French Ouest-France daily he will invest in improving ties with Morocco. “The Republic’s President has personally asked me to invest in French-Moroccan relations to open a new chapter in our ties. I will be committed to that,” Sejourne said.
“Now, it is time to move forward. I will do everything in the upcoming weeks and months so that France and Morocco get closer,” he said, adding that his priority will be “rebuilding trust.”
