France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over its Southern territories is paving the way for a “new era” that will be “very prosperous” for both countries, said French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné.
Séjourné’s statement came hours after France officially announced its endorsement of Morocco’s stance on the Sahara dispute.
Echoing President Emmanuel Macron’s sentiments, the French diplomat emphasized that “the present and future of the Sahara lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty.”
Macron has “set the course,” and his decision reflects the “conviction of France,” Séjourné stated during a reception hosted by the Moroccan Ambassador to Paris, Samira Sitail, and the Ambassador of the Kingdom to UNESCO, Samir Addahre, in celebration of the Throne Day.
The timing of France’s decision is particularly significant as it coincides with Throne Day, a national celebration commemorating King Mohammed VI’s ascension to the throne.
For Séjourné, France’s new stance is only “natural,” given that his country “has always stood by Morocco in this matter of national security for the Kingdom.”
This decision was anticipated following the growing “international consensus” over the past few years regarding the Sahara dispute.
Since 2020, Morocco has made significant strides in asserting its sovereignty over its Southern territories, with countries like the United States and Spain recognizing Morocco’s legitimate claim over the Sahara.
“We now call for advancing on the basis of the autonomy plan under Moroccan sovereignty,” Séjourné stressed.
For France, the Autonomy Plan is the “only basis to achieve a political, just, durable, and negotiated solution, in accordance with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council,” he conceded.
In a statement to MAP, the French Foreign Minister explained that France will advocate for this position on the international stage.
“There is an international consensus strengthening under Morocco’s impetus around the autonomy plan,” he reiterated, adding that “France must also support this movement.”
“We are prepared to work at the level of multinational bodies to advocate for the French position on the Sahara issue,” he added.