Diplomatic thaw accelerates – French prime minister signals potential landmark visits and agreements

Relations between France and Morocco have warmed significantly in recent years, as evidenced by French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s official visit to Rabat. The visit could pave the way for Morocco’s King Mohammed VI to travel to Paris and for both nations to sign an unprecedented “friendship treaty.” While no official timeline has been set, the momentum is undeniable.

Relations between the two countries have improved markedly since France’s president formally recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed Western Sahara region in mid-2024—an announcement that drew sharp criticism from Algeria.

Strengthened partnership despite spyware controversy

Earlier that year, France’s president received a grand welcome in Rabat, ending three years of strained relations exacerbated by espionage allegations and visa restrictions. The visit resulted in multiple commercial agreements and the signing of an “exceptional strengthened partnership.”

Just days ago, an international media consortium published fresh reports alleging Morocco’s extensive use of the Pegasus spyware system, including investigations into whether France had considered acquiring the technology. In 2021, Morocco faced accusations of using Pegasus to target the phones of prominent French figures, including the president and then-minister Lecornu—claims Rabat has consistently denied.

Despite these controversies, the trajectory of France-Morocco relations continues to shift toward deeper collaboration, with leaders on both sides emphasizing mutual strategic interests.