The Speaker of Morocco’s Upper House, Mohamed Ould Errachid, met with a delegation from the France-Morocco Friendship Group of the French Senate on Thursday in Rabat to discuss the role of parliamentary dialogue in strengthening French-Moroccan relations.
During the meeting, both parties remarked upon “the depth and strength” of existing diplomatic relations between Morocco and France.
Speaker Ould Errachid said he is “satisfied” with the progress in bolstering bilateral relations, highlighting “the positive outcomes” of French President Emmanuel Marcon’s state visit to Morocco in October 2024.
The visit, made at the invitation of the monarch, “marked a significant milestone by laying the groundwork for enhanced cooperation through a joint declaration outlining political dialogue, economic partnership, and the strengthening of human and cultural ties,” according to Ould Errachid.
The Speaker highlighted the importance of parliamentary dialogue in deepening the ties between the two countries and reiterated his institution’s commitment to actively contributing to initiatives that strengthen institutional relations. He underscored the pivotal role of parliamentary friendship groups “as key tools to ensure regular and lasting exchanges.”
The Moroccan official commended the visits sponsored by the French Senate Friendship Group to Morocco’s southern provinces, particularly the Dakhla region.
“The visits allowed the delegation to see firsthand the region’s economic and social development,” he said. The two parties discussed the upcoming visit of the French Senate President to Morocco, an opportunity to further consolidate what he called an “exceptional bilateral relationship” as well as expand prospects for parliamentary cooperation.
The French delegation members noted the importance of enhancing collaboration in key areas such as youth initiatives, digital transformation, and cultural exchanges. They also commended Morocco’s efforts to position itself as a regional hub through major projects including the Dakhla Atlantic Port, a critical driver for cooperation with Africa and the Atlantic region.
The meeting is part of joint efforts to prepare for the next Morocco-France parliamentary forum scheduled for later this year. The forum will focus on shared priorities in addressing global challenges.
The French delegation included Max Brisson, Anne-Catherine Loisier, and Laure Darcos.