Key Facts

• Lecornu’s visit was his first official foreign trip as French Prime Minister, lasting two days in July 2024.
• France recently recognized Moroccan control over Western Sahara, a disputed territory claimed by Morocco and the Algeria-supported Polisario Front.
• Between 2021 and 2023, relations between France and Morocco were strained due to disagreements over visas, intelligence sharing, and legal cooperation.
• Morocco has grown as a major trade and transport hub between Europe and Africa, with large investments in ports, industrial zones, and renewable energy.
• France sees Morocco as a stable partner to engage both the Mediterranean region and Africa amid growing influence from China, Turkey, Gulf states, and the United States.
• The two countries are focusing on cooperation in defense, security, and economic fields such as artificial intelligence, big data, and advanced manufacturing.
• Morocco benefits from access to foreign investment and technology to build a stronger, more competitive economy.
• The partnership reflects a shift in French foreign policy seeking reliable regional allies as France’s influence in North Africa and the Sahel decreases.