Morocco-France: is the honeymoon back?

The former emphasized the importance of Morocco for France and the need to clarify the French position on the Sahara. The latter, for his part, expressed his willingness to "personally" bring the two countries closer together. Encouraging words that follow the appointment of a new French ambassador to Rabat, a sign of the importance France attaches to this relationship.

But for this new chapter to materialize, a major obstacle will have to be overcome: the Sahara issue. France, concerned to maintain a balance in its relations with Morocco and Algeria, hesitates to recognize the Moroccanness of the Sahara. A decision that, if taken, would not fail to provoke the anger of Algiers.

In the meantime, the two countries are multiplying gestures of appeasement. French President Emmanuel Macron is considering a visit to Morocco in April or May. An opportunity for the two parties to reaffirm their commitment to building a stronger and more lasting relationship. In addition, Brigitte Macron yesterday received Princesses Lalla Meryem, Lalla Asmaa and Lalla Hasnaa.

The question remains whether words will be followed by deeds. The ball is now in France’s court. Will it seize this opportunity to turn the page on disagreements and write a new chapter in the history of Franco-Moroccan relations?