Diplomatic breakthrough as Morocco and France elevate bilateral ties in Rabat

This high-level meeting between Moroccan and French delegations marks a pivotal moment in the warming diplomatic ties between the two nations—emphasized by both prime ministers during their opening statements on Thursday morning.

Established in 1996 under King Hassan II, these bilateral summits lay dormant for years, only to be revived after the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent diplomatic rift between Rabat and Paris. Those tense times now feel like a distant memory.

« A new chapter in bilateral relations »

Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch described the strengthened partnership, formalized during the French president’s state visit in 2024, as setting « a new chapter in bilateral relations » and establishing « an ambitious course forward. »

The French prime minister underscored the deepening ties between the two countries, highlighting a « pivotal moment » as both Rabat and Paris seek to « scale up their bilateral relationship. »

Over a dozen cooperation instruments signed

Following bilateral ministerial discussions ahead of the plenary session, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu and his Moroccan counterpart Aziz Akhannouch held a one-on-one meeting to address security cooperation and counterterrorism efforts.

Lecornu also referenced the potential royal visit to France, which is expected to culminate in the signing of a new bilateral treaty to redefine the Paris-Rabat relationship.

More than a dozen cooperation instruments—including conventions, declarations of intent, and cooperation agreements—were signed following the plenary session.