French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Morocco for a three-day trip, during which he will engage in discussions with the country's leaders on various key issues. Macron is expected to meet with King Mohammed VI and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch to address topics such as trade, climate change, and immigration.
One significant development leading up to the visit is Macron's recent endorsement of Morocco's autonomy plan for the disputed Western Sahara, a move that has strengthened ties between the two countries. This decision has also strained relations with Algeria, which supports the pro-independence Polisario Front in the region.
France and Morocco have a long history of collaboration, particularly in areas such as counterterrorism and trade. Morocco is the leading recipient of French investments in Africa, while France is Morocco's top trading partner. The countries engage in the exchange of various goods, including cereals, renewable energy infrastructure, and weapons.
Furthermore, Moroccans form one of the largest foreign-born communities in France, making immigration a significant topic of discussion in both countries. Recent efforts by France's Interior Minister to adopt a stricter immigration policy have highlighted the importance of cooperation with nations like Morocco to address migration challenges.
During Macron's previous visit to Morocco, he and King Mohammed VI inaugurated Africa's first high-speed rail line, a project made possible through French financing and technology. Despite their close relationship, tensions have arisen between France and Morocco in the past, with issues such as visa restrictions and allegations of espionage straining diplomatic ties.
As Macron embarks on his visit to Morocco, both countries are looking to strengthen their partnership and address shared challenges in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.
