France, Morocco sign 14 agreements to deepen strategic partnership

RABAT, Morocco (MNTV) — France and Morocco signed 14 cooperation agreements on Thursday aimed at expanding collaboration across multiple sectors, as French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu concluded a two-day visit to Rabat focused on strengthening political and economic ties.

Lecornu co-chaired the 15th Morocco-France High-Level Meeting with Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, where both sides endorsed agreements covering the economy, security, migration, defense and scientific cooperation.

Among the key accords were financing arrangements with the French Development Agency to support the Rabat Regional Express Rail project and a loan agreement related to Morocco’s water policy. 

The two countries also signed a framework agreement intended to expand cooperation in scientific research and innovation.

Speaking during the visit, Lecornu said France’s visa policy is designed to encourage travel for entrepreneurs, students and other people who play an important role in strengthening relations between the two nations.

The visit underscores efforts by Paris and Rabat to further consolidate relations after restoring diplomatic momentum in 2024, when France formally recognized Morocco’s sovereignty claim over the disputed Western Sahara territory.

Officials from both countries view the renewed partnership as an opportunity to expand trade, investment and technological cooperation. 

France is seeking to strengthen its economic presence in Morocco, while Rabat expects the partnership to support development through increased foreign investment and technology transfer.