New bilateral treaty to reshape Morocco-France ties

France is preparing to give its relationship with Morocco a fresh foundation through a groundbreaking bilateral treaty. The two nations are collaborating on a long-term agreement designed to modernize their partnership and address the challenges of the coming decades.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced the initiative during a press conference in Rabat on July 16, following the 15th high-level Franco-Moroccan meeting. The French delegation included twelve ministers who engaged in discussions with their Moroccan counterparts.

«This treaty will establish the first bilateral framework France has ever signed with a non-European Union country,» Lecornu stated, emphasizing the historic nature of the agreement. A joint committee of French and Moroccan experts is now finalizing the document’s content, aiming to create a «unique, stable, and ambitious» structure for future cooperation.

Expanding horizons in Morocco-France cooperation

The treaty initiative builds upon the momentum from French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco in October 2024. Both governments are now tasked with implementing previously agreed commitments and launching new initiatives across key sectors.

The enhanced partnership will prioritize collaboration in manufacturing, energy, transportation, defense, security, agriculture, culture, and higher education. Additionally, facilitating mobility between the two countries—particularly for entrepreneurs and students—remains a central focus.

Lecornu also highlighted the robust cooperation between Moroccan and French authorities in combating terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and irregular migration. Plans are underway to formalize a comprehensive security agreement to further strengthen these joint efforts.

The French Prime Minister reaffirmed France’s unwavering stance on the Sahara issue, describing it as «inalterable.» He confirmed that this position will remain consistent and continue to shape France’s interactions with Morocco.