Following extensive preparatory meetings, Moroccan and French officials convened in Rabat today for a landmark high-level dialogue aimed at reshaping the foundations of their bilateral relationship.

Our correspondent on the ground in Rabat, Matthias Raynal, reports that both nations’ prime ministers emphasized the historic significance of this summit during their opening remarks.

Established in 1996 under the reign of King Hassan II, these annual consultations were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent diplomatic tensions between Rabat and Paris. Today’s gathering signals a clear intent to move past those challenging years.

A ‘new chapter’ in Morocco-France relations

Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch described the strengthened partnership agreed during the French president’s 2024 state visit as having opened ‘a new chapter in bilateral relations’ and set ‘an ambitious direction’ for future cooperation.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu echoed this sentiment, framing the meetings as a ‘pivotal moment’ in which both countries seek to ‘elevate their relationship to a new level’.

Over a dozen cooperation agreements signed

Before the plenary session, French and Moroccan ministers held bilateral discussions, with Lecornu and Akhannouch specifically addressing security cooperation and counterterrorism efforts.

Lecornu also confirmed reports of a potential royal visit to France, which would culminate in the signing of a new bilateral treaty to further solidify Paris-Rabat relations.

The plenary session concluded with the signing of more than a dozen cooperation instruments, including conventions, declarations of intent, and partnership agreements, covering a wide range of sectors.