The President of the French Senate, Gérard Larcher, began his official visit to Morocco
The visit will start on Sunday, February 23, 2025, which will last until February 26. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between France and the Kingdom of Morocco, a strategic moment as both countries seek to solidify their political and economic ties. Gérard Larcher is accompanied by a high-level delegation consisting of several influential figures from the French Parliament.
During his stay, Gérard Larcher will meet with several senior Moroccan officials. His visit will begin with a reception at Rabat-Salé airport by the President of the Moroccan Council of Advisors, Mohamed Oueld Rachid, before attending a series of important meetings. Among the personalities he will meet are the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, and the head of government, Aziz Akhannouch. These exchanges will aim to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two countries on various fronts.
Gérard Larcher’s agenda also includes visits to several symbolic and strategic sites in Morocco. The President of the French Senate will notably visit the Mohammed V Mausoleum in Rabat, an emblematic site in the country’s history. This symbolic gesture highlights France’s respect for Moroccan heritage and underscores the importance of the Franco-Moroccan relationship.
The third day of the visit, scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, will be dedicated to the region of Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra in Moroccan Sahara. Gérard Larcher and his delegation will visit the area to learn about the economic and social development projects undertaken in this region, particularly under the new development model for the southern provinces. This step is particularly important in the current political context, as France shows strong support for Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
This visit takes place in a tense climate, especially with regard to expected reactions from Algiers. Indeed, Algerian diplomacy may not look favorably upon this strengthening of ties between Paris and Rabat, especially following the recent visit of the French Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, to Morocco. Nevertheless, France appears determined to continue its relations with Morocco regardless of external pressures, emphasizing its commitment to mutual development between the two nations.
This visit by the President of the French Senate is part of a broader effort to strengthen strategic partnerships between the two countries. It reflects a shared will to foster a smoother political dialogue and promote new economic initiatives. Discussions will also focus on cooperation in security, the fight against terrorism, as well as challenges related to climate change, areas where the interests of both nations are increasingly converging. Gérard Larcher’s visit marks a turning point in Franco-Moroccan relations, characterized by renewed enthusiasm and commitment.