A few days before Emmanuel Macron’s official visit to Morocco, relations between the two nations appear more promising than ever. This turning point could pave the way for unprecedented multilateral cooperation.
The clear and unequivocal support for Moroccan sovereignty over its southern provinces marks a decisive shift in Franco-Moroccan relations. Emmanuel Macron explicitly stated: "The present and future of Western Sahara are within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty."
Beyond the long-awaited clarification from Rabat on Morocco's Sahara issue, many experts and observers believe this rapprochement opens the door to strengthening the multidimensional partnership between Morocco and France. Various sectors are involved, including trade, finance, industry, and security, as this renewed trust points to increased cooperation in security and military matters, particularly in the Sahel.
On one hand, France, a nuclear power, has substantial assets. On the other hand, Morocco has developed solid and diverse South-South cooperation. Moreover, Morocco's effectiveness in areas such as security and counterterrorism is exemplary. Additionally, Morocco shares its experience and resources to enhance regional security and support stabilization efforts. This commitment is crucial in countering growing security threats across the continent, including transnational terrorism and organized crime. Rabat works closely with Sahel countries to promote peace and security while strengthening multidimensional ties with other African nations.
France, however, maintains rather complex relations with countries in the region. Historically, Paris has had a significant military and economic presence, especially due to its former colonies. Since the 2010s, France has intensified efforts to combat terrorism and drug trafficking in the Sahel, conducting joint military operations with local forces. However, these relationships are often marked by tensions and criticisms. Some Sahel countries, like Mali, have forced the departure of French military presence and seek to strengthen their own defense capabilities. Moreover, French military interventions have sometimes been seen as interference in the internal affairs of these countries.
This is where Morocco could play a decisive and crucial role. The Kingdom enjoys a very positive image among Sahel countries and could act as a bridge between France and Sahelian nations, as explained by the former head of intelligence at the French General Directorate for External Security (DGSE).
A cooperation between Morocco, which has "become essential for investments in Africa," represents the essence of a promising tripartite partnership. Despite numerous challenges, France could "reconcile" with countries that currently distance themselves. For Sahel countries, for example, aligning with the Rabat-Paris axis would allow them to diversify their partnerships, which is of considerable importance.
