France Seeks Morocco’s Support in Counter-Terrorism Efforts, Reaffirms Respect for Islam

During this exchange meeting between the two Foreign Ministers, the French Minister recalled the two important messages from the President of the French Republic, Emmanuel Macron. These are a "message of great firmness towards terrorism and extremism, and a message of peace and deep respect towards Islam and all Muslims".

In his statement, the French Minister tried to calm the spirits after the tensions that arose in the aftermath of President Macron’s speech on the Charlie Hebdo cartoons. "We are committed to ensuring that all religious denominations are respected, in a spirit of equality. France has the deepest respect for Islam, with which its relationship is both secular and a rich one, made of cross-influences in the most diverse fields," said the French Foreign Minister.

The French Minister also mentioned the issue of the Moroccan Sahara. According to him, France is concerned about the blockade in El Guerguerat. "We believe that this situation must be resolved and we welcome the responsibility shown by Morocco," said Jean-Yves Le Drian.