Former French President Urges Repair of Strained Morocco-France Relations

For a year now, it’s no longer the honeymoon between Rabat and Paris. It all started in September 2021, when the French authorities announced a 50% reduction in the number of visas granted to Moroccans. The reason given is the "reluctance" of Morocco to repatriate its nationals in an irregular situation in France. Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita had described the decision as "unjustified", denouncing "a unilateral decision".

François Hollande calls on the Moroccan and French authorities to turn this page made of "misunderstandings" and misunderstandings, and to see beyond these tensions, the interests of the two countries. "I am here also for Morocco, in Morocco, to say how much we need a relationship that is engaging and inspiring for all the countries of the Maghreb and Africa. I regret when there are moments like the ones we are experiencing today, where there are misunderstandings and perhaps decisions that have not been understood. Even if I no longer have any responsibility today on behalf of France, I wish for France and Morocco that these relations resume their course," explained the former French president.

François Hollande pleaded for a return to peace between Morocco and France, in the presence of several ministers, including Chakib Benmoussa, Mehdi Bensaid and Ghita Mezzour. Mohamed Bachir Rachdi, president of the National Authority for Integrity, Prevention and Fight against Corruption (INPPLC), Ahmed Rahhou, president of the Competition Council and Moulay El Hassan Daki, Attorney General of the King, were also present.

These remarks are the same as those of Olivier Becht, French Minister Delegate in charge of foreign trade, attractiveness and French people abroad, currently on a working visit to Morocco. According to him, discussions are underway to "promote a return to normal".