Mohammed VI, star of the Francophonie Summit: when diplomacy rhymes with reconciliation

After months of strained relations between Morocco and France, diplomatic smiles are blooming again. Emmanuel Macron's invitation to King Mohammed VI for the 2024 Francophonie Summit in Paris looks like a powerful symbol. The king is expected in the French capital surrounded by a high-ranking Moroccan delegation, all against a backdrop of strategic rapprochement, particularly concerning the sensitive issue of Western Sahara.

So, is this a simple Francophonie summit or a major diplomatic catch-up between Paris and Rabat?

From tensions... to hugs? The context was not really ideal between the two nations. Relations between Paris and Rabat had cooled, particularly because of the thorny issue of Western Sahara. Macron, although a Francophile, had taken his time before clarifying his support for Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara. A late recognition, certainly, but enough to reactivate the diplomatic channel. Result? The invitation to the summit falls just in time to seal the reconciliation between the two capitals.

Mohammed VI, who arrives in Paris with his entire team, will take advantage of the opportunity to not do things by halves. Accompanied by influential figures such as Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Ambassador Samira Sitail, as well as some eminent members of the Moroccan economic world such as Chakib El Alj, the sovereign does not intend to just make an appearance. Between round tables and economic meetings, there will be connection in the air.

The Francophone issue: a summit in the form of a “reset”?

This summit is all the more symbolic as it marks the first time it has been organized in France in over 30 years. While some see it as yet another long-winded summit with pompous speeches, the behind-the-scenes story tells a completely different story. Behind the microphones and official photos, there are concrete economic issues. For example, Morocco will take advantage of this event to strengthen its ties with other African countries, particularly via the "Franco-Tech", an economic forum planned on the sidelines of the summit, where Paris hopes to attract African and Moroccan partners.

Moroccan bosses will therefore have VIP seats at Station F, a temple of innovation in Paris, where technology and entrepreneurship will be in the spotlight. Between a glass of mint tea and a conference on artificial intelligence, we will talk about start-ups, investment funds and Franco-Moroccan cooperation.

Warming or catching up: Macron's strategy

Macron did not just invite Mohammed VI to sip tea. The stakes are much higher. In the midst of a diplomatic reshuffle, with the Sahel issue burning, France is seeking to solidify its alliances in the Maghreb. After losing ground in its relations with Algeria, Paris cannot afford a lasting break with Rabat. This invitation is therefore well calculated: it reassures Rabat while sending a clear message to Algiers.

Morocco, for its part, is not letting itself be pushed around. By playing on its strategic positioning and recalling its African alliances, Rabat knows very well that it has the wind in its sails on the continent. The Francophonie here becomes a perfect pretext to solidify its partnerships.

A summit that redraws the map of alliances?

This summit could well be a key moment in the redefinition of Franco-African relations. With Mohammed VI as guest of honor, it is also a sign of a repositioning of the Francophonie itself, as a diplomatic institution. It is no longer just a tool for promoting the French language, but a real economic and political lever, where linguistic issues are mixed with major geopolitical issues.

For Macron, this is a unique opportunity to consolidate ties with a Morocco that, in recent years, has significantly strengthened its influence in sub-Saharan Africa. Rabat, with its multiple trade and diplomatic agreements on the continent, has become a key player. And if the Cherifian kingdom plays its cards right, this summit could not only strengthen its position, but also increase its influence within the French-speaking world.

Conclusion: between reconciliation and opportunities

Mohammed VI will not be a simple guest at the Francophonie Summit. His presence is a strong indicator of an expected reconciliation between Paris and Rabat, but it is also an opportunity for the two nations to redefine their partnership, while consolidating their relations with other French-speaking countries. A power play to follow closely, with consequences far beyond the simple words exchanged around the Francophonie.