Rabat-The French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot shared a divided map of Morocco on his Instagram account, months after specifying that France would adapt the way the borders of Morocco are in its official communications.
In October was the full map of Morocco, which integrated the western Sahara published On the official website of the French Ministry for Europe and foreign affairs (Quai d’Orsay).
Post has triggered a debate about whether the move was an oversight or a deliberate decision.
If it is unintentional, it reflects a sheer lack of attention to detail and questions the diplomatic consistency of France. If it is intentionally, it is about a pattern of ambiguity in France’s approach in Morocco.
Timing is particularly striking, since Barrot only announced months earlier that France would send an ambassador to western Sahara to strengthen his consular presence, a step that is considered a step to strengthen France’s attitude towards the sovereignty of Morocco.
During a press conference in Rabat after his meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Barrot confirmed that France with Morocco was looking for a fair and permanent political solution and described the 2007 autonomy plan as the only basis for such a result.
He also found plans to promote French economic and cultural engagement in the region, with a visit to the ambassador to mark the beginning of an expanded presence.
Barrot’s statement oriented with Comments Made by French President Emmanuel Macron during his latest state visit to Morocco.
Macron confirmed that the present and future of the region in Morocco falls sovereignty over its southern provinces, a position with strong approval by diplomats and legislators.
He also described the autonomy plan as the only practical basis for solving the dispute.
In this context, Barrot’s short card raises questions about whether the position of France is shifting again or whether inconsistencies reflect in his news a deeper uncertainty.
Regardless of the intention, Morocco remains determined in its position: the western Sahara is part of its territory, a fact that does not change with foreign stories that are not changing.
