France and Morocco Sign Enhanced Partnership Agreement in Rabat

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu visited Rabat on July 16 and signed an enhanced exceptional partnership agreement with Morocco. The two governments also called for expressions of interest in an electricity interconnection project between the countries. Lecornu visited the Royal Mausoleum during the trip.

He described bilateral ties as exceptionally positive and at a turning point. He said France wanted to deepen cooperation, especially on security and counterterrorism. Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch said the partnership rested on a shared strategic vision, restored trust and common ambition.

Security cooperation between the two nations has produced unprecedented operational successes against organised crime and drug trafficking, according to statements released after the meeting. A media consortium led by Forbidden Stories and including Le Monde published new reports the same day alleging that Morocco used Pegasus spyware to target French officials.

Email traces linked to the surveillance appeared on the phones of French ministers, including Lecornu.

The consortium first reported extensive Moroccan use of the spyware in 2021. Morocco has rejected all accusations of Pegasus use and demanded evidence. The reports emerged as the two sides moved to strengthen ties that improved after President Emmanuel Macron backed Morocco's sovereignty claim over Western Sahara in 2024.