THE WEST AFRICA

FRANCE & MOROCCO SIGN €10 BILLION AGREEMENTS ON INVESTMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY

FRANCE & MOROCCO SIGN €10 BILLION AGREEMENTS ON INVESTMENT, INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY
Spread the love

Faith Nyasuguta

During a state visit to Morocco, French President Emmanuel Macron and Moroccan King Mohammed VI signed new agreements worth approximately €10 billion, aimed at strengthening the ties between the two nations. The deals, signed at the Royal Palace, cover a range of sectors including investment, energy, and infrastructure, marking a significant step in the bilateral relationship.

One of the key agreements involves French rail manufacturer Alstom, which will provide up to 18 high-speed train cars to Morocco. This deal is expected to enhance Morocco’s transportation infrastructure, facilitating faster and more efficient travel across the country. The high-speed trains will be a significant addition to Morocco’s existing rail network, supporting the nation’s efforts to modernize its transportation system.

In addition to the rail agreement, the Moroccan Phosphates Office and French energy company Engie have sealed a deal with potential investments of up to €3.5 billion. This partnership aims to boost Morocco’s energy sector, focusing on sustainable and renewable energy sources. 

/Courtesy/

The collaboration is expected to drive significant advancements in energy production and distribution, contributing to Morocco’s goal of becoming a regional leader in renewable energy.

President Macron’s visit to Morocco comes months after he altered France’s long standing stance on the disputed Western Sahara, supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan for the territory. Macron described the plan as the “only basis for achieving a just, lasting, and negotiated political solution” to the issue. This move was welcomed by Rabat, following years of strained relations between France and Morocco over the Western Sahara conflict.

The Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, has been a point of contention between Morocco and Algeria for nearly five decades. The territory is largely controlled by Morocco, but the Algeria-backed Polisario Front also claims it as its own. 

The United Nations considers the Western Sahara a non-self-governing territory, over which Morocco cannot claim sovereignty. Macron’s support for Morocco’s autonomy plan has been seen as a significant diplomatic shift, aimed at easing tensions and fostering stability in the region.

/France 24/

During his visit, Macron was also set to address the Moroccan parliament, further emphasizing the importance of the bilateral relationship. The agreements signed during this visit are expected to pave the way for increased cooperation and mutual benefits for both nations.

The €10 billion worth of deals highlight the strategic importance of the France-Morocco partnership. Morocco’s potential to serve as a hub between Europe and Africa, both strategically and in terms of infrastructure, particularly electricity, is a key factor in this relationship. 

/News Central TV/

The agreements are expected to enhance Morocco’s infrastructure, boost its energy sector, and attract further investment, contributing to the country’s economic growth and development.

Khadija Mohsen-Finan, a political scientist focused on northern Africa, noted that the trip signifies a mutual decision by both countries to improve relations and set aside their disputes. The visit, Macron’s second to Morocco since 2018, underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership and work towards common goals.

The agreements also reflect France’s broader strategy to rely on Morocco in Africa and the Sahel, where France has lost influence in recent years. Morocco’s expanding role in the region makes it a valuable partner for France, particularly in areas such as security, economic development, and energy.

As Macron’s visit continues, the focus will be on implementing the agreements and ensuring that the benefits are realized for both nations. The strengthened ties between France and Morocco are expected to contribute to regional stability and prosperity, setting a positive example for international cooperation.

RELATED:

About Author

Faith Nyasuguta

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *