French President Emmanuel Macron, accompanied by his spouse, Ms. Brigitte Macron, touched down in Morocco on Monday afternoon, beginning an official state visit at the invitation of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This diplomatic event not only highlights the deep-rooted and historic relationship between Morocco and France but also sets the stage for strengthening bilateral cooperation across multiple domains in a rapidly evolving international environment.
French President in Morocco: A Grand Reception at Rabat-Salé Airport
Upon their arrival at the Rabat-Salé Airport, the French presidential couple was warmly welcomed by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, accompanied by members of the royal family, including Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, Prince Moulay Rachid, and Princesses Lalla Khadija and Lalla Meryem. In keeping with Moroccan tradition, a 21-gun salute echoed through the airport as the national anthems of both countries were played, reflecting the ceremonial grandeur marking the visit.
The two leaders, joined by other members of the royal family, reviewed a detachment of the Royal Guard in a traditional military salute. As an extension of Moroccan hospitality, President Macron and his spouse were invited to participate in a ceremonial offering of milk and dates at the airport’s Royal Lounge, symbolizing friendship and goodwill.
A Procession to the Royal Palace and a Spontaneous Greeting of Crowds
Following the airport reception, the official procession headed toward the Royal Palace in Rabat, with streets adorned in Moroccan and French flags. Residents of Rabat and Salé gathered along the route, enthusiastically greeting the motorcade and expressing their support for the friendship between the two nations. In a gesture of warmth, His Majesty the King paused the procession, inviting President Macron to join him in greeting the crowds, sparking spontaneous cheers from onlookers.
Upon their arrival at the Bab Assoufara gate, the royal procession was escorted by the Royal Guard’s cavalry and fanfare to the Mechouar Square within the Royal Palace, where Moroccan dignitaries awaited to welcome the French president.
Official Welcome Ceremony and High-Level Diplomatic Talks
In a grand reception, President Macron was introduced to top Moroccan officials, including the Head of Government, the Speakers of the two Houses of Parliament, and advisors to the King. Senior government and judicial figures, military leaders, and representatives of various national councils were also present, underscoring the significance of the visit. Similarly, His Majesty the King was introduced to the French delegation accompanying President Macron, which included ministers from various portfolios such as interior, education, foreign affairs, and defense, as well as key business and cultural figures.
The two leaders proceeded to the Royal Office for an official family photograph, accompanied by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and other members of the royal family.
Statement from the Royal Office: A New Chapter in Morocco-France Relations
A statement released by the Royal Office highlighted the central objectives of the visit: to open a new chapter of strategic cooperation and strengthen the exceptional partnership between the two nations. The discussions between King Mohammed VI and President Macron revolved around forging deeper ties in the economic, environmental, and social sectors, reflecting the two countries’ shared ambitions.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of expanding cooperation across the Euro-Mediterranean region, Africa, and the Atlantic area, with a focus on sustainable development and prosperity. They also discussed international developments, agreeing to collaborate on peace initiatives in the Middle East and address pressing humanitarian challenges.
The talks particularly highlighted the need for renewed dialogue and collaboration to tackle socio-economic and environmental challenges in the Mediterranean region. Both Morocco and France expressed their commitment to fostering stability and prosperity in the region through coordinated action and mutual respect.
Joint Call for Peace in the Middle East
The discussions between the two heads of state also delved into the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon. Both leaders condemned the violence and stressed the importance of protecting civilians and delivering humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict. They called for an immediate ceasefire and reiterated the need to reactivate the peace process based on the two-state solution, advocating for an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
President Macron commended King Mohammed VI’s efforts, in his role as Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, to mediate for peace in the region, underscoring Morocco’s constructive contributions to regional stability.
Morocco’s Sovereignty over the Sahara: A Historic Pledge from France
During a joint session of the Moroccan Parliament, French President made a significant diplomatic gesture by firmly reiterating France’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara. This marks a notable shift in France’s position, aligning it more closely with Morocco’s stance on the territorial dispute.
“For France, the present and future of this territory lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. The autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 is the only basis for a just, lasting, and negotiated solution,” declared Macron, addressing the Moroccan parliamentarians.
The French president emphasized his country’s commitment to supporting Morocco in international fora and highlighted the importance of French investments in the region. “This position is not hostile to anyone; it opens a new page of cooperation in the Mediterranean region,” Macron said, inviting other regional players to join in fostering stability and growth.
Invitation to King Mohammed VI to French President for a State Visit to France
In a gesture of diplomatic reciprocity, President Macron extended an official invitation to King Mohammed VI to visit France. His Majesty accepted the invitation, with the details of the visit to be finalized through diplomatic channels, reflecting the strength of the bilateral relationship.
Morocco and France: A Timeless Alliance
The visit serves as a testament to the deep-rooted and time-honored alliance between Morocco and France. President Macron noted the historic friendship and cooperation between the two countries, emphasizing that “France has never failed Morocco on any existential issue.” The reaffirmation of this relationship comes at a crucial moment as both nations face complex geopolitical challenges and seek to chart a shared path forward.
President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco underscores the strategic importance of the Morocco-France partnership and paves the way for a new era of cooperation. With renewed commitments on regional security, economic development, and cultural exchange, the visit sets a promising tone for the future of bilateral relations. France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara adds significant weight to the diplomatic achievements of the visit, reinforcing Morocco’s position on the international stage.
As Morocco and France look toward the future, this visit symbolizes not only the continuation of a strong and historic friendship but also a shared vision for addressing global challenges and fostering regional stability and prosperity.
