France recently announced the lifting of all visa restrictions for Moroccan nationals. This decision marks an important turning point in relations between Paris and Rabat, after a period of diplomatic tensions linked to various factors, including the Pegasus spy program and the Western Sahara issue.
According to several sources, there has recently been a significant increase of 80 % in the number of Moroccans obtaining Schengen visas for France. This trend raises questions about the reasons for this increase, and about the future of relations between the two countries.
Franco-Moroccan rapprochement benefits from deteriorating Franco-Algerian relations
There are several indications that a a new dynamic is underway between France and Morocco. The meeting between Aziz Akhannouch, head of the Moroccan government, and Bruno Le Maire, French Minister of the Economy and Finance, is a concrete example. Bilateral relations between the two countries seem to be moving towards closer cooperation.
This rapprochement could be attributed to the deterioration in relations between Paris and Algiers, notably due to tensions over immigration and the management of the health crisis.
End of visa crisis between Paris and Rabat
Christophe Lecourtier, French ambassador to Morocco, announced the November 13, 2023 the end of the visa crisis and the lifting of all restrictions on the issue of visas by France. The result is an improvement in diplomatic relations between the two countries, and greater openness to cultural and economic exchanges.
🚨🇫🇷🇲🇦 Christophe Lecourtier, French Ambassador to Morocco, announces the lifting of all restrictions on the issue of Visas by France. "From now on, there are no longer any restrictions in terms of France issuing visas," he said in an interview... pic.twitter.com/OeBq8WWyP1
- LSI AFRICA (@lsiafrica) November 13, 2023
After tightening visa requirements for Moroccan nationals in recent years, it seems that Paris is backtracking by removing all restrictions on the issue of visas.
Positive consequences for Moroccan nationals
This decision has a number of advantages for Moroccans wishing to travel to France: it makes travel easier, simplifies administrative procedures and reduces the cost of obtaining a visa. Opportunities are also opening up for students, tourists and entrepreneurs wishing to develop their projects in France.
Franco-Moroccan cooperation, an asset for both countries
Improved understanding and cooperation between France and Morocco will benefit both countries, economically and geopolitically. French nationals will also be able to benefit from easier exchanges and opportunities within the framework of this strengthened bilateral relationship.
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