فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
February 24, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic move, Gérard Larcher, President of the French Senate, reaffirmed France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara during an official visit to Rabat. In a speech delivered on February 24, 2025, Larcher emphasized that this position “is not the policy of a temporary government, but the policy of the French Republic,” sending a clear message to Algeria (🇩🇿), which has historically supported the Polisario Front’s claims to the region.
Strengthening Franco-Moroccan Relations
Larcher’s visit, which spans several days, began on February 23, 2025, and is part of efforts to strengthen the “exceptional partnership” between France and Morocco. He was received in Rabat by Mohamed Sheikh Biadillah, President of Morocco’s House of Councillors (the upper house of the Moroccan Parliament), leading a delegation from the French Senate. The visit also includes a stop in Western Sahara, underscoring the deepening of parliamentary cooperation and friendship between the two nations.
This diplomatic move follows a series of high-level engagements, including French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco in October 2024, during which he formally recognized Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as the “most serious and credible” solution to the decades-long dispute over Western Sahara. Larcher’s statements further solidify this stance, reflecting a unified French policy across state institutions.
Focus on Western Sahara
France’s reaffirmation of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara carries significant geopolitical weight, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict over the region. Morocco considers Western Sahara part of its southern provinces, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, seeks independence for the territory. Larcher’s visit to Western Sahara, including a stop in Laayoune, serves as a tangible demonstration of France’s commitment to its new position, first articulated by Macron.
During his visit, Larcher is scheduled to meet with several Moroccan officials, including Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch, to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional stability. He will also participate in events organized by the Moroccan-French Parliamentary Forum, highlighting the role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening this partnership.
Implications for Regional Dynamics
Larcher’s statements and visit come at a time of heightened tensions in Franco-Algerian relations, particularly regarding the Western Sahara issue, which Algeria considers a central point of contention in its rivalry with Morocco. Larcher’s explicit reference to the “policy of the French Republic” appears aimed at clarifying France’s unwavering stance, potentially escalating diplomatic friction in the Maghreb region.
What’s Next?
As Larcher’s three-day visit continues, observers are closely watching for any additional statements on Franco-Moroccan relations and the Western Sahara issue. His visit to Laayoune on February 25, 2025, is expected to further reinforce France’s alignment with Morocco, while likely drawing reactions from Algeria and the Polisario Front.
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