Rabat: Morocco and France have formalized an action plan for technical cooperation in the field of justice for the 2026-2028 period. This agreement, signed on Monday in Rabat by Morocco’s Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, and his French counterpart, Gérald Darmanin, aims to create a structured and enduring framework for collaboration and exchanges between their respective justice ministries.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, this initiative is part of ongoing efforts to bolster the already strong cooperative ties between Morocco and France. It aligns with previous agreements, including the administrative agreement from December 13, 2012, the memorandum of understanding from March 5, 2018, and the technical cooperation action plan for 2024-2026, signed on May 31, 2024. It also follows a joint declaration from March 10, 2025.

The 2026-2028 action plan focuses on modernizing the judicial administration, enhancing human resource management, and promoting the exchange of expertise and best practices
. Key areas of cooperation include the digitization of the judicial system, capacity building, legislative information exchange, and technical support for judicial reform initiatives.

The plan outlines various forms of collaboration, such as workshops, visits for magistrates and judicial officials, congresses, conferences, and forums. It also includes joint participation in international events and the establishment of expert groups to ensure effective implementation.

The agreement mandates an annual technical cooperation agenda starting in 2026 and an assessment of cooperation activities’ outcomes. Minister Ouahbi highlighted the agreement’s significance in enhancing bilateral relations, particularly in crime prevention and technical cooperation. Minister Darmanin expressed gratitude for the exemplary cooperation, emphasizing efforts against organized crime and drug trafficking.

The French minister also acknowledged Morocco’s legislative modernization efforts and planned discussions with Moroccan lawyers
on international commercial and economic arbitration. The ministry’s statement underscores the shared commitment of Morocco and France to advance bilateral cooperation in justice, aiming for improved governance and rule of law at both national and international levels.