France and Morocco are rekindling their diplomatic relations with a series of business agreements during President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit.
Relations had been strained over the Western Sahara dispute and immigration issues, but France’s recognition of Morocco’s claim over Western Sahara in July paved the way for reconciliation. King Mohammed VI personally greeted Macron and his wife, underscoring the importance of this renewed alliance.
The highlight of the visit was Morocco’s purchase of 12 high-speed trains from French company Alstom, with an option for six more by 2030.
French firms like EDF, Engie, and TotalEnergies also signed deals to expand in Morocco’s renewable energy sector and hydrogen market, with both nations sealing contracts worth over €10 billion ($10.8 billion).
This visit aims to ease tensions, especially over immigration policies, which have strained relations in recent years.