Morocco's King Mohammed VI and French President Emmanuel Macron signed a Declaration on a “reinforced exceptional partnership” at the Royal Office in Rabat.

This agreement aims to bolster Morocco-France relations, addressing shared challenges through expanded cooperation across multiple sectors.

The King was accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Prince Moulay Rachid.

Key Points of the Declaration are

1. Historic Partnership

The Declaration marks a new chapter in Morocco-France relations, elevating the partnership to a “reinforced exceptional” level. This is a testament to their shared history, strong cultural ties, and commitment to cooperation across strategic areas.

2. Strategic Goals and Ambitions

The partnership’s core objectives include:

• Political Convergence: Enhancing mutual political and strategic alignment.

• Economic Development: Fostering economic growth, social cohesion, and strategic autonomy.

• Cultural and Human Ties: Strengthening Francophone values, human capital, and cultural exchanges.

3. Focus Areas

The two nations will prioritize cooperation in sectors such as health, water management, agriculture, transportation, connectivity, energy, artificial intelligence, security, education, and cultural industries. Emphasis will also be placed on coordinating efforts in sports, especially in light of the upcoming 2030 World Cup.

4. Migration and Mobility

Both leaders highlighted their shared commitment to addressing migration challenges through comprehensive strategies for legal mobility, combating irregular immigration and ensuring coordination among origin, transit, and destination countries.

5. Regional Cooperation

The Declaration underscores the significance of Africa, the Atlantic, Euro-Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern regions in Morocco-France dialogues. President Macron commended King Mohammed VI’s initiatives for African stability and development, which align with France’s renewed approach to partnership with Africa.

6. Global Collaboration

Internationally, Morocco and France pledged to collaborate on global issues, including climate change, biodiversity, and conflict resolution, particularly in Africa and the Euro-Mediterranean region.

Implementation Mechanism

King Mohammed VI and President Macron will directly oversee the implementation of this partnership, setting priorities and monitoring progress. A parity-based strategic committee will support the partnership, complementing existing bilateral mechanisms.

7. Western Sahara Position

President Macron reiterated France’s support for Morocco’s autonomy plan as the foundation for a political solution in Western Sahara, emphasizing France’s stance on Moroccan sovereignty.

Ceremony Highlights

At the ceremony’s close, King Mohammed VI presented a gift to President Macron. Key Moroccan and French officials were also in attendance, underscoring the significance of this enhanced partnership.

The signing of this Declaration solidifies Morocco and France’s commitment to a robust, forward-looking alliance, addressing regional and global challenges for current and future generations.