The leader of the “Les Républicains (LR)” party, Eric Ciotti, questioned by a TRT journalist on the intentions of his coalition with the National Rally (RN) concerning relations with Morocco, discussed Franco-Moroccan relations following the announcement of the results of the first round of the early legislative elections in France.
Ciotti, faithful to his convictions and his pro-Moroccan positions, reaffirmed his desire to ” restore “ bilateral relations with the Kingdom if the right-wing and far-right coalition wins, but without invoking the thorny issue of the Moroccanness of the Sahara.
In this sense, he underlined the importance of renewed and intensified collaboration, affirming that Morocco, being a strategic partner and a long-standing friend, requires special attention and authentic commitment to overcome differences and build a future together. prosperous.
Still, his statement was perceived as strong and direct. “ If we win, we want to restore relations of friendship and trust with the Kingdom of Morocco.“, Eric Ciotti declared bluntly at a press conference, a few hours after the announcement of the results of the first round. This statement testifies to the importance he gives to Morocco in French foreign policy.
Controversial but strategic alliance
As a reminder for these historic early legislative elections, Eric Ciotti had made a bold decision by allying himself with the National Rally. This alliance, although strategic, aroused strong criticism within his own party, going as far as his temporary exclusion from the leadership of the Republicans. However, the courts ended up invalidating this decision, allowing Ciotti to continue to carry out his ideas and political projects.
That said, the President of the Republicans underlined the central place of Morocco in France’s diplomatic priorities. “ Morocco is a great country, a great democracy for which I have a lot of respect and consideration”he said, adding that the restoration and strengthening of bilateral relations constituted “an important issue”.
In May 2023, Eric Ciotti visited Morocco at the head of a partisan delegation including Rachida Dati. During this visit, he publicly proclaimed his support for the Moroccanness of the Sahara. After a lunch with the Moroccan Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, as well as with the President of the Chamber of Advisors, Naam Miyara, Ciotti declared in a post on X: ” On the question of Western Sahara, the sovereignty of Morocco is indisputable. It is urgent to resolve this strategic question ! ».
Renewed and strengthened cooperation
Eric Ciotti expressed the importance of renewed cooperation with Morocco, a strategic partner of France that deserves special attention and sincere commitment. For him, Morocco must be at the center of French diplomatic concerns, and the reestablishment of strong and friendly relations with the Kingdom is a priority.
By promising to restore relations with Morocco, Ciotti is not only making an electoral promise, but also demonstrating a clear vision of Morocco’s place in French foreign policy. It remains to be seen whether this vision will come to fruition after the legislative elections.
