Morocco Opens New Consulate in Montpellier to Better Serve Expat Community

Traditional music and a buffet were on the menu for the inauguration of the new 850 m² building of the Moroccan Consulate General in Montpellier, attended by its ambassador to France, Samira Sitail, prefect François-Xavier Lauch, mayor Michaël Delafosse, and the president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry André Deljarry and of the port of Sète Jean-Claude Gayssot. "With these new premises, a substantial qualitative leap has been made, in order to respond to royal directives for more effective support that meets the expectations" of these nationals, it is explained.

According to the Consul General Lalla Soumia Bouhamidi, in office since last September, this new building is "the prelude to a new chapter, that of a renewed Moroccan presence". The former premises were in Figuerolles. But "conditions were no longer favorable. We are raising the level of reception and services," insisted the kingdom’s ambassador to France, Samira Sitail. "We need to launch ourselves and move forward, build a common future". The new building welcomes about 160 people each opening day.

This inauguration "comes in a context of warming relations between Rabat and Paris after the French recognition of the Moroccanness of the Sahara," emphasizes Midi Libre. Recently, Michaël Delafosse also recalled this position during his trip to the southern city of Dakhla. "We also call each other to have projects, it’s a stimulating relationship, a growing relationship," added the State representative. His wish is to see economic ties strengthened.

"Morocco in Montpellier plays an essential role. Outside Paris, the city is the first destination for its students," the mayor resumed. They number 4,000 out of the 28,000 nationals of the kingdom registered in Hérault.