France Strengthens Cultural Presence in Laayoune: A New Step to Support Morocco’s Sovereignty Over the Sahara
France is set to open a cultural center in Laayoune, named the “Alliance Française de Laayoune,” marking a clear endorsement of Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara. This new initiative aims to promote values of peace, tolerance, and coexistence through French language courses, encouragement of multilingual learning, and cultural exchange programs.
Local Efforts to Support the Project
According to informed sources, Abdessalam Bekrate, Wali of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region, has directed the establishment of an association comprising local talent to manage the center. He has also called for a meeting with the French delegation overseeing the project and urged expedited administrative and logistical procedures to ensure its success.
Political and Cultural Messaging
This initiative follows the visit of French Ambassador to Morocco, Christophe Lecourtier, to Laayoune on November 12, accompanied by a large delegation of French investors. During his visit to the French school “Paul Pascon,” affiliated with the French mission OSUI, the ambassador emphasized the importance of strengthening Morocco-France cooperation in culture, economics, education, and scientific research.
Laayoune, which is witnessing significant growth in higher education and vocational training, has become a hub for educational and cultural institutions. Among these are international cultural missions like “Colegio La Paz,” operated by Spain’s Ministry of Education, which contributes to the city’s cultural and educational vibrancy.
Expanding French Presence in the Southern Provinces
This project aligns with a prior announcement by Jean-Noël Barrot, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, during his visit to Rabat in October 2024. Barrot expressed France’s intention to enhance its consular and cultural presence in Morocco’s southern provinces.
The opening of the “Alliance Française de Laayoune” not only reflects France’s commitment to deepening cultural ties with Morocco but also serves as a strong diplomatic message underscoring its support for the Kingdom’s territorial integrity.
