Morocco-France: Position on the Sahara reinforced
Emmanuel Macron will not any time soon forget the intensity of his appearance before Parliament on Tuesday October 29, 2024 in Rabat. Particularly when all the members of parliament from both chambers stood up for a standing ovation.
It was the French President who triggered this emotional charge, when he addressed the question of the Moroccan Sahara in his speech. «For France, the present and future of this territory fall within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty», he stressed, adding that «autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty is the framework within which this issue must be resolved. The 2007 autonomy plan is the only basis for achieving a just, lasting and negotiated political solution, in accordance with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. This is the position that France will implement to accompany Morocco in international fora», said the French President.
In his speech to Parliament, Emmanuel Macron made a simple point that speaks volumes about the expected reactions: «this position is not hostile to anyone». Even without naming it, Algeria will feel targeted. And yet, our eastern neighbor claims not to be a party to the Moroccan Sahara issue.
Except that every time a country expresses a position in favor of the autonomy plan, Algiers brings out its classic big guns: recall of its ambassador, retaliatory measures and questioning of bilateral agreements.
All chancelleries know this inaudible musical score. Algeria is already waging a disinformation campaign against France. But the masks have come off.
«The French position opens a new page in the book that the two countries want to write, together, but also with all those who want to act within a framework of regional cooperation in the Mediterranean, with Morocco’s neighboring countries and with the European Union», says the President.
An opportunity to recall that «operators and companies will accompany the development of these territories through investments, sustainable initiatives and solidarity for the benefit of local populations».
Dialogue between two continents
Beyond these two countries, the relationship between Morocco and France is also opening up towards Europe and Africa. He believes that dialogue between two continents can open up new paths beyond those of flight and exile. He quotes an extract from the royal speech when the Kingdom decided to return to the African Union: «It is a beautiful day when one carries one’s heart towards the beloved home, Africa is my continent and my home». The Euro-African partnership needs to be strengthened. Everyone is aware that the African continent will be the one where a large part of our future will be played out. «With Africa, because yesterday’s lenses are outdated, we are committed to renewing our relationship with peoples and governments» , he said. He put it bluntly that: «Morocco, by virtue of its geography, history, culture, and the vision of its rulers, has long affirmed its calling as a platform. Its stability, openness, and development are unrivalled assets that can inspire many joint initiatives», said the President.
Building a new partnership strategy
The French President is not one to beat about the bush. He clearly stated that he wanted to draw inspiration from Morocco and its actions on the continent. “We need stability in this region that respects people, and development projects for young people. This will not only ensure stability, but also put an end to the trafficking and misery which, from the Gulf of Guinea to Libya, is causing suffering on both the African and European continents. In this region, France, with humility, is seeking to build a new partnership strategy with Africa to build a future together. Not just in the Sahel and Sahara, but throughout the continent, through education, agriculture, ecological projects, digital technology, and energy. In these areas, there are joint actions that we can build together.
Mohamed CHAOUI
