فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Rabat, April 16, 2025 – The French Embassy in Morocco announced today a significant decision aimed at expanding the scope of its consular services to include the city of Laayoune in the Moroccan Sahara. This announcement comes amidst important diplomatic shifts reflecting France’s continued support for Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces.
The French Ambassador to Morocco, Christophe Lecourtier, explained that the opening of a consular center in Laayoune will significantly facilitate access for local residents to visa services and other consular transactions, without the need to travel to other cities such as Agadir. This expansion aims to strengthen human and cultural ties between France and the residents of the southern provinces, in addition to supporting economic cooperation and French investments in the region.
In addition to consular services, the embassy announced plans to establish a French cultural institute in Laayoune, which will be the fourth institute of its kind in Morocco. This initiative aims to promote cultural exchange and offer diverse educational programs, including French language courses. It aligns with France’s efforts to support cultural development and foster understanding between the two peoples.
On the economic front, the region is witnessing significant activity from French companies, particularly in the phosphate and energy sectors, with partnerships with major Moroccan institutions. The expansion of consular services is expected to attract further investment and strengthen economic relations between the two countries.
This move comes in the context of France’s continued support for Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue, especially following the letter sent by French President Emmanuel Macron to King Mohammed VI in July 2024, which affirmed that “the present and future of the Western Sahara lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty.” Recent months have also seen multiple visits by French officials to Laayoune and Dakhla, reflecting France’s support for Morocco’s stance.
The expansion of French consular services in Laayoune reflects a significant diplomatic shift and underscores France’s commitment to Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces. This development is a positive step towards strengthening bilateral relations and supporting economic and cultural development in the region, amidst growing international support for Morocco’s position on the Sahara issue.
