France strengthens cultural ties with Morocco through minister's strategic visit

France's Culture Minister Rachida Dati has embarked on a three-day visit to Morocco, leading a delegation focused on enhancing cultural partnerships between the two nations. The visit, scheduled from February 16-18, aims to implement cultural agreements established during French President Emmanuel Macron's landmark visit to Morocco in October.

Dati's delegation includes representatives from prominent French institutions, including the National Center for Cinema and Animated Picture (CNC), the National Library of France (BNF), and the National Audiovisual Institute (INA). During her stay in Rabat, the minister will meet with her Moroccan counterpart, Mehdi Bensaid, to sign new agreements in film production, archives, and gaming.

The ministerial visit extends beyond the capital, with planned stops in Tarfaya, Laayoune, and Dakhla. These regional visits will facilitate meetings with cultural and educational leaders, with France indicating its intention to fund local projects and foster collaboration between cultural professionals from both countries.

In Rabat, Dati's itinerary includes visits to the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the International University of Rabat, the Rabat Movie Theater, and the historic Chellah archaeological site. These visits underscore the comprehensive nature of the cultural exchange program.

The visit builds upon the momentum generated by President Macron's October state visit, during which France and Morocco signed 22 agreements across various sectors. During that visit, Macron affirmed France's support for Morocco's sovereignty over its southern provinces and endorsed the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, marking a significant shift in France's North Africa policy.

This diplomatic engagement represents a new chapter in Franco-Moroccan relations, characterized by what officials describe as "reciprocity and mutual respect." The cultural initiatives being developed include specific provisions for cooperation in video game production, outlined in a recently signed letter of intent between the two nations.