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Addressing Morocco's Parliament, French President Emmanuel Macron echoed King Mohammed VI’s vision for a deeper «dialogue» between Europe and Africa. Emphasizing his commitment, Macron referenced the King’s powerful speech at the African Union Summit on January 31, 2017, which marked Morocco’s return to the organization. «It is a beautiful day when one brings one’s heart home. Africa is my continent and my home», he quoted, drawing applause from parliamentarians.
Macron advocated for a «Euro-African partnership», stressing that «everyone can see the African continent will play a crucial role in our shared future». He added that perspectives on Africa need to evolve, noting that «yesterday’s view of the continent is outdated». He called for a refreshed approach to relationships with African people and governments.
Morocco, Macron underscored, is pivotal to his vision of opening a new chapter with African nations. In recent years, France has faced competition for influence in the Sahel and Central African Republic from Russia and China.
Macron praises Morocco’s influence in the Sahel
Macron acknowledged Morocco’s growing role in the Sahel. «Morocco, with its geography, history, culture, and the vision of its sovereigns, has long established itself as a gateway and a unique bridge», he said, adding that France and Morocco should «work together». He emphasized that Morocco’s work in the Sahara and the Sahel serves as an inspiration.
«We need stability in this region, grounded in respect for its people, with opportunities for its youth», Macron stated, arguing that development projects are essential for ending the trafficking routes that hurt both Africa and Europe.
He praised King Mohammed VI’s initiatives to support Sahelian access to the Atlantic Ocean, launched on December 23, 2023, in Marrakech. Since then, Morocco, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Chad have held regular meetings, with the most recent in New York at the ministerial level in September, to advance this vision.
«I’m counting on this new strategy to help us work together in this region, where France is eager to build a renewed partnership», Macron said, adding that while France has been criticized for various regional issues, it has played a crucial role in keeping states from collapsing in the face of terrorism. He referenced France’s military efforts, including Operations Serval and Barkhane in Mali from 2013 to 2022, and Operation Épervier in Chad from 1986 to 2014.
«This new partnership with Africa, particularly with its youth, is what we want to build together—in the Sahel, Sahara, and across the continent—through education, agriculture, environmental projects, digital technology, and energy», he continued, stressing the potential for «energy bridges» and policies promoting food security.
Meanwhile, military governments in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have already announced they are ending defense agreements with France, expelling French forces, and withdrawing from the G5 Sahel.
