A revitalized partnership 

France and Morocco marked a significant new chapter in their bilateral relationship during the French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s visit to Rabat. Standing alongside his Moroccan counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch, Lecornu lauded the outcomes as “exceptionally positive” and a “pivotal moment” for relations between the two nations. This renewed closeness builds upon the momentum initiated in 2024 when President Emmanuel Macron recognized Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, a decision that successfully resolved several years of diplomatic strain between Paris and Rabat.

Security, Africa, and major initiatives 

Both governments are now committed to deepening their cooperation, particularly in areas such as security, counter-terrorism efforts, and combating drug trafficking. Paris also seeks to reinforce its partnership with Rabat on critical African issues, especially in confronting the jihadist threat across the Sahel region. The high-level meeting concluded with the signing of approximately a dozen agreements. These accords encompass various sectors, including electrical grid interconnection between the two countries, funding from the French Development Agency for water-related projects, and the development of a future RER commuter rail line within the Rabat metropolitan area. Furthermore, Sébastien Lecornu announced that preparations are underway for an “extraordinary” bilateral treaty, which could potentially be signed during a forthcoming visit by King Mohammed VI to France, with details currently under review.

Pegasus in the background 

However, this high-profile visit took place amidst fresh revelations from an international media consortium concerning Morocco’s alleged use of the Pegasus spyware and France’s reported interest in the surveillance tool. French authorities offered no official comments on these new disclosures. Within the French delegation, the issue was downplayed, with President Emmanuel Macron’s inner circle emphasizing that the immediate priority was to “strengthen the framework of cooperation and trust” with Rabat. Morocco, for its part, consistently rejects the accusations, labeling them as “false and unfounded allegations.”