Sahara: France Affirms Morocco’s Sovereignty Over the Territory, Present and Future.

France has reiterated that the “present and future of the Sahara lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty” and has detailed the steps it will take to implement this stance.

A statement from Morocco’s foreign ministry on Wednesday confirmed that this position was expressed in Rabat by French Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean‑Noël Barrot during a press briefing after his meeting with Mr Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

Barrot highlighted the strategic importance of the Sahara issue to France and the region, noting that it aligns with the position communicated by French President Emmanuel Macron in his letter to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, dated 30 July 2024, which stated that “the present and future of this territory lie within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty.”

In this context, the French minister affirmed that “France supports the autonomy plan put forward by Morocco as the only basis for a just, lasting and negotiated political solution.”

He added that “the UN Security Council’s Resolution 2797 falls within this logic,” and that France “celebrates this positive momentum, as well as the resumption of direct talks among all stakeholders on the basis of the autonomy plan.”

Regarding actions taken by France to support this position, Barrot said his country has “expanded its consular presence” and “cultural activities,” including the opening of a visa‑application submission centre, the establishment of an “Alliance Française” in Laayoune, and the inauguration of a new school.

On the economic side, he noted that French companies are investing in the Sahara, with the French development agency (Agence française de développement) and operators providing relevant support.