Morocco-France relations: agricultural cooperation strengthens enduring partnership

France’s Minister of Agriculture, Annie Genevard, has highlighted the enduring strength of Morocco-France relations, describing Morocco as a “great friend of France.” Speaking on Sunday during the International Agricultural Show in Paris, Genevard emphasized the significance of Morocco being selected as the event’s first foreign guest of honor, calling it a “true sign of friendship” between the two nations.

Genevard underscored the importance of agricultural cooperation between Morocco and France, including key areas such as imports, exports, training, irrigation, and forest management. She pointed to promising opportunities for expanding bilateral ties and trade partnerships in the future.

The French government has acknowledged the growing competition in international trade, particularly from non-European nations such as China and the United States. Despite this, Morocco remains France’s primary economic and financial partner, affirming the resilience of their partnership.

Trade growth and economic collaboration

In 2022, trade between Morocco and France saw a remarkable 24% increase, largely driven by the growth of French grain exports. This surge helped reduce the trade deficit between the two nations and allowed France to reclaim its position as Morocco’s second-largest supplier, ahead of China.

France remains a crucial economic partner for Morocco, serving as the largest foreign investor in the country, with 30.8% of the total stock. Additionally, France is the leading source of foreign currency for Morocco, driven by transfers from the Moroccan diaspora, tourism revenues, and other economic activities.

Political alignment and strengthened ties

Relations between Morocco and France have also deepened politically, particularly following France’s support for Morocco’s territorial integrity. In July 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron publicly recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over its southern provinces in Sahara. This significant policy shift was followed by Macron’s historic visit to Rabat, where he met with King Mohammed VI to oversee the signing of multiple agreements aimed at boosting cooperation across various sectors.

The agreements, valued at €10 billion, span areas such as culture, education, trade, and gaming, reflecting the growing scope of collaboration between the two countries.

A partnership for the future

During a meeting on Saturday between Morocco’s Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch and French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties. Bayrou expressed satisfaction with the “exceptional leap” in relations following Macron’s visit, highlighting the enduring human and cultural connections between the two nations as a foundation for their partnership.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential for expanded cooperation in sectors such as agriculture. The strengthened ties between Rabat and Paris, he noted, open the door for increased collaboration and mutual growth.

As Morocco and France continue to deepen their partnership, their shared history, economic ties, and political alignment signal a robust and enduring relationship poised to thrive in the years ahead.