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France has reiterated that the «present and future of the Sahara lie within Moroccan sovereignty» and outlined concrete measures being implemented in line with that position.
The statement was made on Wednesday in Rabat by Jean-Noël Barrot during a press briefing following talks with Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad.
Emphasizing that the Sahara issue is strategic for both France and the region, Barrot recalled the position expressed by French President Emmanuel Macron in a letter sent to King Mohammed VI on July 30, 2024, stating that «the present and future of this territory fall within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty».
In this context, the French minister reaffirmed «France’s support for the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco as the sole basis for a just, lasting, and negotiated political solution».
He added that «United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797 follows the same logic», noting that France «welcomes this positive momentum, as well as the resumption of direct discussions between all stakeholders on the basis of the autonomy plan».
Regarding the measures taken by France in line with this position, Barrot said his country has already «expanded its consular presence» and increased its «cultural activities», notably through the opening of a visa application center, the creation of a French Alliance in Laayoune, and the inauguration of a new school.
On the economic front, he noted that French companies are investing in the Sahara and that «the French Development Agency and other operators are supporting them» in these efforts.
