France is set to redefine its partnership with Morocco through a groundbreaking bilateral treaty. The two nations are collaborating to establish a long-term cooperation framework that addresses evolving challenges and opportunities for decades to come.

French Interior Minister Sébastien Lecornu unveiled this ambitious initiative during a press conference in Rabat on 16 July, concluding the 15th high-level Franco-Moroccan meeting. He led a delegation of twelve ministers who engaged with their Moroccan counterparts to advance shared objectives.

“We are crafting a bilateral treaty that will serve as a model for France’s relations beyond the European Union,” Lecornu stated in remarks published by French authorities. A joint committee of French and Moroccan experts is actively shaping the treaty’s content to ensure it fosters a “unique, stable, and forward-looking” partnership.

Redefining Morocco-France cooperation for the future

This initiative builds on President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco in October 2024, where both governments pledged to implement concrete measures and expand collaboration across key sectors.

The treaty aims to deepen ties in critical areas such as industry, energy, transportation, defense, security, agriculture, culture, and higher education. Enhancing mobility for entrepreneurs and students is also a central priority.

Lecornu highlighted the robust cooperation between Moroccan and French authorities in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and irregular migration. A comprehensive security agreement is in the works to further strengthen these efforts.

The French official reiterated France’s unwavering stance on Western Sahara, describing it as “inalienable.” He emphasized that this position will remain consistent and guide future bilateral relations with Morocco.