French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to make landmark visit to Morocco

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu is set to embark on his first international trip since taking office, with a historic visit to Morocco scheduled for July 15, 2026.

This diplomatic milestone follows a notable appearance alongside President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron during the Bastille Day parade on the Champs-Élysées. The visit to Rabat will mark the first meeting of the Franco-Moroccan High-Level Intergovernmental Seminar (RHN) since 2019, when diplomatic relations between the two nations faced significant strain.

The Prime Minister will be accompanied by twelve key ministers, including Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. The delegation will engage in high-level discussions with Moroccan officials, particularly with Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. The visit underscores the renewed diplomatic engagement between France and Morocco, following a period of strained relations that lasted until recent years.

Renewed Franco-Moroccan relations take center stage

This diplomatic engagement comes at a crucial time, as France formally recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory of Western Sahara in 2024. The decision was followed by a state visit from President Macron to Rabat, demonstrating the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two countries.

The High-Level Intergovernmental Seminar (RHN) is expected to address a wide range of topics, including economic cooperation, security partnerships, and regional stability in North Africa. The resumption of these high-level meetings signals a new chapter in Franco-Moroccan relations, after years of diplomatic tensions.

Ministers urged to balance work and rest this summer

As the French government navigates a busy summer agenda, Prime Minister Lecornu has issued a firm directive to his cabinet. In a move that reflects his commitment to maintaining government operations, he has encouraged ministers to take brief breaks but avoid extended vacations during August.

“Take some time to recharge, but don’t plan long absences,” Lecornu reportedly told his team. The Prime Minister, known for his reluctance to take prolonged breaks, has also shared his own summer plans. He will split his August between Paris and Vernon in the Eure region, ensuring a mix of work and personal time.

This directive underscores the government’s focus on maintaining productivity and engagement throughout the summer months, even as the country gears up for the August holiday season.