Rabat: The 15th Morocco-France High-Level Meeting (HLM) is hailed as “the first concrete governmental embodiment of the new political framework” established by His Majesty King Mohammed VI and President of the French Republic H.E. Emmanuel Macron, during the French President’s state visit to the Kingdom in October 2024, Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch announced Thursday in Rabat.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Akhannouch, speaking at the opening of the meeting, emphasized that this gathering is more than a reactivation of an institutional mechanism, reflecting a Reinforced Exceptional Partnership that opens a new chapter in bilateral ties. This partnership is based on a strong political convergence, renewed economic momentum, and a shared commitment to a collaborative future.
The High-Level Meeting signifies the start of implementing this shared vision, showcasing the determination of both governments to translate commitments into tangible results. Akhannouch highlighted that President Macron’s visit marked a pivotal moment in evolving bilateral relations, cementing the commitment of the two Heads of State to anchor cooperation within the Reinforced Exceptional Partnership framework. This partnership is commensurate with the historic ties and achievements between Morocco and France, addressing shared challenges.
Since October 2024, significant progress has been made in priority areas identified by the two Heads of State. Morocco and France have deepened consultations on major regional and international issues, in a spirit of mutual trust, shared responsibility, and mutual respect. Akhannouch commended France’s support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and the Moroccanness of the Sahara, fostering a climate of reinforced trust.
On the economic front, the momentum generated since President Macron’s visit has accelerated key projects in industry, infrastructure, renewable energy, logistics, innovation, and productive investment. Energy transition, industrial decarbonization, next-generation infrastructure, rail and port connectivity, and new value chains are now major pillars of Morocco-France cooperation.
“We also share the ambition to support major technological transformations: artificial intelligence, digital technologies, applied research, the data economy, and innovation. These strategic fields are set to enhance our economies’ competitiveness, modernize public administrations, and train tomorrow’s talent,” Akhannouch stated.
Beyond strategic and economic dimensions, this partnership is based on rich human ties between the two societies. “Students, researchers, entrepreneurs, artists, creators, and members of our diasporas contribute to bringing our peoples closer together and enriching our cultures,” he said. Rabat and Paris are promoting higher education, scientific research, vocational training, innovation, and talent mobility.
The two countries highly value cultural cooperation, promoting intercultural dialogue, celebrating shared heritage, and strengthening people-to-people exchanges, considered the living foundation of this relationship.
Akhannouch concluded by affirming that under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco remains committed to ambitious, balanced cooperation offering future opportunities. He praised President Macron’s commitment to injecting new momentum into the nations’ relations and enshrining their Exceptional Partnership.