Macron invites King Mohammed VI to Paris International Agriculture Show as Morocco becomes the first foreign guest of honor. The decision follows strengthened ties after France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara. Despite protests from French farmers regarding Moroccan produce, the collaborative prospects in agriculture remain significant, with discussions planned on mutual benefits amid trade complexities.
President Emmanuel Macron has officially invited King Mohammed VI of Morocco to the Paris International Agriculture Show. Morocco will make history as the first foreign country to be honored at this event since its inception. The show is set to take place from February 22 to March 2, and the Moroccan monarch has yet to respond to the invitation, which, if confirmed, would be his first visit to France since 2018.
The selection of Morocco as the guest of honor highlights the significance of agricultural partnerships between France and Morocco. Following France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara and Macron’s visit to Rabat, the invitation reflects a strengthening of bilateral ties. Organizers emphasize the mutual benefits of collaboration in agriculture, especially in tackling climate change challenges.
Morocco plans to present its agricultural heritage in a dedicated 476-square-meter pavilion, showcasing traditional cooperative products and various agricultural exhibits. This initiative has been put forth by El Mahdi Arrifi, Director General of the Agricultural Development Agency, who highlights the country’s agricultural diversity.
Despite the celebratory tone, the atmosphere is contentious due to protests from French farmers. They assert the competition from Moroccan produce, particularly tomatoes, is unfair and related to accusations of harmful agricultural practices. Reportedly, unverified claims suggest Moroccan farmers use banned insecticides and profit from lower labor costs.
Hélène Laporte, a National Rally deputy, previously leading the criticism of Moroccan tomato imports, has softened her stance, expressing regret for any unfriendly interpretations towards Morocco. This marks a shift from her earlier calls for a revision of trade agreements concerning Moroccan produce, particularly tomatoes.
The invitation comes amid various visits from French officials to Morocco, with the French Culture Minister expected to inaugurate a Cultural Center in Laayoune. Additionally, Senate President Gérard Larcher and Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot will undertake trips to discuss agricultural issues as part of broader bilateral relations.
French-Moroccan trade involves complex interdependencies, underscored by France’s 45% share of Morocco’s grain imports in 2022. This relationship illustrates how vital French grain producers have been to Morocco’s food security framework, benefiting significantly from the bilateral free trade agreements in place.
President Macron’s invitation to King Mohammed VI represents a pivotal moment in French-Moroccan agricultural relations. As Morocco prepares to showcase its agricultural capabilities, underlying tensions regarding trade practices highlight ongoing challenges. However, the strengthening ties through high-level visits and collaborative discussions point towards potential progress in agricultural partnerships.
Original Source: moroccoworldnews.com
