French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire announced France's willingness to contribute to the funding of a 3 gigawatt power cable connecting Casablanca to Dakhla in Western Sahara, during a Moroccan-French business forum in Rabat on Friday.
Addressing the forum, Le Maire stated, “I confirm to you that we are ready to participate in funding this project,” underscoring France's commitment to the initiative.
The region of Western Sahara has long been a subject of dispute between Morocco, which regards it as its southern provinces, and the Algeria-backed Polisario front, advocating for an independent state in the area.
Earlier in February, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne expressed France's support for Morocco's investments in Western Sahara and reiterated backing for Rabat's autonomy plan for the territory, signaling a thaw in diplomatic relations between the two nations following a period of tension.
Morocco has been seeking international recognition of its sovereignty over Western Sahara, following precedents set by the U.S. and numerous Arab and African countries.
Beyond the power cable project, Le Maire highlighted France's readiness to collaborate with Morocco on various energy initiatives, including solar, wind, green hydrogen, and nuclear power development.
Additionally, Le Maire announced that the French Development Agency (AFD) would extend a loan of 350 million euros to support Morocco's phosphates and fertilizers giant OCP in its efforts toward decarbonization.
France holds the position as the largest foreign investor in Morocco, with investments totaling 8.2 billion euros ($8.75 billion) up to the year 2022.
