Morocco, France Discuss Bilateral and Global Issues on Sidelines of Nuclear Energy Summit

Paris, The Gulf Observer: Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, met with his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot in Paris on the sidelines of the 2nd International Nuclear Energy Summit, according to a statement from Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting focused on bilateral relations and a range of regional and international issues of mutual interest. However, the ministry’s statement did not disclose further details about the discussions.

Morocco and France maintain strong and longstanding ties characterized by extensive cooperation across multiple sectors, including economic, political, and cultural fields.

Earlier this year, Emmanuel Macron described Franco-Moroccan relations as “exceptional” during the annual conference of French ambassadors in Paris. He stressed the importance of consolidating strategic partnerships in an increasingly complex global environment and cited Morocco as a key pillar of France’s Mediterranean diplomacy.

Bilateral relations were further strengthened following President Macron’s state visit to Morocco from October 28 to 30, 2024. During the visit, Mohammed VI and the French president oversaw the signing of 22 agreements aimed at expanding cooperation in several strategic sectors, including transport, energy, and cultural exchange.

Among the agreements was a major contract between Morocco’s National Railway Office and the French multinational Alstom to supply high-speed trains and related technical support across Morocco’s rail network.

The visit also followed France’s decision to shift its stance on the Western Sahara issue by formally recognizing Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces and supporting the Moroccan Autonomy Plan as the most viable political solution to the long-running dispute.

Trade relations between Morocco and France remain robust, with bilateral trade estimated at around €15 billion. France is also considered the leading destination for Morocco’s outbound investments.

French Ambassador to Morocco Christophe Lecourtier previously noted that the strong trade momentum reflects the unique and enduring partnership between the two countries.