France Reaffirms Support for Morocco’s Sovereignty Over Sahara, Expands Diplomatic and Economic Presence
Rabat – France has officially reaffirmed its geopolitical position that the future of the Sahara region lies entirely under the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco, while simultaneously announcing a series of concrete diplomatic, cultural, and economic measures to implement the policy on the ground.
The statement was delivered by French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot during a joint press conference following bilateral talks with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Rabat on Wednesday, May 21, 2026.
Barrot reiterated that France’s stance aligns with the official letter sent by French President Emmanuel Macron to Mohammed VI on July 30, 2024. Paris considers the Sahara issue a strategic priority not only for Morocco but also for the broader stability and security of North Africa.
According to Barrot, France fully supports Morocco’s Autonomy Plan, describing it as the only credible basis for achieving a fair, lasting, and negotiated political resolution to the decades-long dispute.
France also emphasized that United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797, adopted on October 31, 2025, is consistent with this approach. Paris welcomed the renewed momentum and the resumption of dialogue among international stakeholders based on Morocco’s autonomy proposal.
As part of the practical implementation of this policy, France has expanded its diplomatic and cultural footprint in the Sahara region. The initiatives include the opening of a visa application center, the establishment of an Alliance Française cultural institution in the city of Laayoune, and the inauguration of a new educational facility. French companies have also begun increasing investments in the region with support from the French Development Agency.
French Recognition Seen as a Geopolitical Turning Point
The latest development in North Africa has also drawn attention in Indonesia. President of Persaudaraan Indonesia Sahara Maroko (Persisama), Wilson Lalengke, described France’s active involvement as a major geopolitical turning point that could reshape the regional political landscape.
He noted that the Sahara issue has persisted for more than five decades and requires an immediate resolution, particularly due to the prolonged humanitarian situation affecting hundreds of thousands of Sahrawi refugees living in camps near Tindouf.
“France’s sustained support, accompanied by the opening of consular services and tangible economic investments in Laayoune, represents a powerful de facto and de jure recognition. France is a permanent member of the UN Security Council. When Paris declares that the future of Sahara lies under Moroccan sovereignty, the political debate over the territory is essentially settled,” Wilson stated in Jakarta on Thursday.
The 2012 alumnus of Lemhannas RI’s PPRA-48 program added that France’s concrete measures validate the legitimacy of UN Security Council Resolution 2797 and demonstrate that international law supports Morocco’s territorial integrity.
Wilson also expressed hope that France’s position would encourage Southeast Asian countries, particularly Indonesia, to adopt a more progressive stance on the matter.
“The autonomy framework under Morocco has delivered tangible welfare improvements for local communities through inclusive infrastructure and educational development. It is time for the international community to unite in supporting this stability for the sake of global peace,” he concluded.
Editor - Tim
