The French government has reaffirmed its stance on Western Sahara, stating that the region's present and future must be within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty. This position was expressed by the spokesperson for the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. The statement was released after a meeting between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his French counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot, in Essaouira.
The French government views the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 as the sole basis for a just, sustainable, and negotiated political solution to the Western Sahara dispute. This plan has been a cornerstone of Morocco's position on the issue. The French government also expressed its support for the ongoing dialogue and the efforts of the United Nations, based on Resolution 2797.
During their meeting, Barrot and Bourita reviewed the strengthened exceptional partnership between France and Morocco. This partnership has been flourishing over the past two years, following a state visit by the French President to Morocco at the invitation of King Mohammed VI. The two ministers expressed satisfaction with the dynamic and fruitful relationship between their countries.
The discussions between Barrot and Bourita covered various areas of cooperation, including the prospect of concluding a bilateral Franco-Moroccan treaty. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, particularly the situation in the Middle East and the Sahel. Barrot reiterated France's commitment to utilizing Franco-Moroccan cooperation to help resolve crises in these regions.
The meeting between the two ministers highlighted the strong ties between France and Morocco. The relationship has been described as particularly dynamic and fruitful, with cooperation spanning multiple domains. The two countries have been working closely on various regional and international issues.
France's position on Western Sahara has been consistent, emphasizing the importance of Moroccan sovereignty and autonomy as a solution to the dispute. This stance has been reiterated at various levels, including during the meeting between Barrot and Bourita. The French government has also expressed its support for the UN's efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the issue.
The talks between Barrot and Bourita demonstrated the commitment of both countries to strengthening their bilateral relationship and addressing regional and international challenges. The meeting also underscored the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation between France and Morocco on issues of mutual interest.
Key points
- France reaffirms its support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara.
- Autonomy is viewed as the only viable solution to the region's political dispute.
- France and Morocco have a strengthened exceptional partnership, with cooperation spanning multiple domains.
