France vows new chapter in relations with Morocco, despite Algerian tensions

French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné reaffirmed, Wednesday, his commitment to mending ties with Morocco during a National Assembly hearing, reports AFP.

«The will is there. We've resumed contact and addressed past misunderstandings», Séjourné acknowledged. «Our relationship with Morocco is crucial, even essential», he emphasized.

«Building trust takes time, but it serves the interests of both France and Morocco», said the minister, advocating for «a new political agenda. I believe we can improve», he declared.

These remarks echo statements made by his Spanish counterpart, José Manuel Albares, upon assuming office in July 2021. His term began with Spanish support for Morocco's Western Sahara autonomy plan, officially adopted in March 2022.

Séjourné also conveyed his openness to transparent dialogue with Moroccan officials, «respecting all parties», according to the same source.

Last Saturday, Séjourné, appointed in January, reiterated his proactive approach to Morocco. «The President personally tasked me with reinvigorating the Franco-Moroccan relationship and forging a new chapter. I'm committed to that», he said in an interview with Ouest-France. «In the coming weeks and months, I will do everything to bring France and Morocco closer together», the minister pledged.

Regarding Western Sahara, he reiterated France's «clear and consistent support for the Moroccan autonomy plan since 2007. It's time to move forward», he added, drawing criticism from Algeria.