Gérard Larcher Reaffirms France’s Support for Morocco’s Sovereignty over the Sahara and Highlights New Cooperation Opportunities
The President of the French Senate, Gérard Larcher, reaffirmed France’s support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, while praising the “Royal Atlantic Initiative,” which he sees as a key factor in strengthening stability in the region.
In a statement made after his meeting with Mr. Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad, on Monday in Rabat, Mr. Larcher emphasized that the relations between Morocco and France, after going through difficult periods, have now returned to a positive path thanks to the will of the leaders of both countries and the central role of parliamentary diplomacy, which opens up new opportunities for cooperation.
He added, “This new chapter in our relationship, which began with President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Morocco, is based on a shared heritage and deep friendship that dates back to the time of the late HM King Mohammed V and General de Gaulle. Although this relationship has faced challenges, today, thanks to the leaders’ will, we have found the right direction again.”
Mr. Larcher also highlighted the new cooperation areas discussed with Mr. Bourita, particularly the strategic importance of the southern Atlantic coast, which symbolizes major stability for Africa and the world.
As part of his visit, Mr. Gérard Larcher will travel to Laâyoune on Tuesday, where he will meet with local authorities, including Mr. Abdesslam Bekrat, Wali of Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Mr. Moulay Hamdi Ould Errachid, President of the Laâyoune Municipal Council, and Mr. Sidi Hamdi Ould Errachid, President of the Regional Council.
The program of this visit also includes an inspection of major social and economic projects, reflecting France’s commitment to local development in the southern provinces.
During this visit, Mr. Larcher will lay the foundation stone for the French school in Laâyoune, before visiting the headquarters of the Alliance Française, thus strengthening educational and cultural cooperation between the two countries.
In conclusion, he reminded everyone that “the Sahara, as President Emmanuel Macron emphasized during his historic visit, can only have a future and present under Moroccan sovereignty.”
Mr. Larcher also reaffirmed France’s position on the Sahara issue, reminding that “since 2007, France has supported the autonomy plan as a credible and realistic solution. This is a state position, not just a government one.”
Finally, he highlighted the promising prospects for strengthening parliamentary cooperation between Morocco and France, particularly within the Francophone space.
Le7tv
