Morocco – France: A Strengthened Strategic Partnership for Forest Preservation
Morocco and France are strengthening their strategic cooperation in the forestry sector through a new initiative aimed at enhancing the sustainable management of ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate change adaptation. A high-level meeting took place in Rabat on Monday, May 4, 2026, between the two parties.
A Meeting at the Heart of Bilateral Cooperation
Mr. Abderrahim Houmy, Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), met with Ms. Éléonore Caroit, Minister Delegate to the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, responsible for Francophonie and international partnerships.
This meeting reflects the continuity of a historic partnership based on mutual trust, respect, and a shared vision in addressing environmental and climate challenges.
Longstanding Forest Cooperation
Both officials highlighted the depth of Moroccan-French cooperation, which has been developed over more than thirty years in key areas, including:
- the sustainable management of protected areas,
- biodiversity preservation,
- reforestation,
- ecosystem health and resilience,
- the management of urban and peri-urban forests,
- and adaptation to climate change.
The “Ghabati Hayati” Program at the Center of the Strategy
The discussions highlighted the significance of the “Ghabati Hayati – My Forest, My Life” program, funded by the French Development Agency (AFD) to the tune of €103 million.
This program serves as a major lever for:
- modernizing forest governance,
- strengthening sustainable management of forests and national parks,
- and supporting the transition to a low-carbon, resilient, and inclusive economy.
Both parties commended the quality of their partnership with AFD and discussed the implementation of a new cooperation program aimed at extending and amplifying the achievements of the Moroccan Forests 2020-2030 Strategy.
An Expanded Institutional Partnership with the European Union
Bilateral cooperation is also being reinforced by a twinning project led by ANEF, with support from the European Union under the “Al Ard Al Khadraa – Green Earth” program.
This project involves several European partners, including France, Spain, Italy, and Sweden, and aims to promote modern and sustainable management of forest ecosystems.
Toward Enhanced Technical Cooperation
Both parties agreed to strengthen technical and institutional exchanges to consolidate existing synergies and broaden cooperation prospects in the forestry sector.
A Common Vision for Africa
Beyond the bilateral framework, Morocco and France reaffirm their commitment to promoting ambitious South-South cooperation in Africa, based on:
- the sharing of best practices,
- leveraging successful experiences,
- and the sustainable management of natural resources.
A Strategic Visit Planned in France
In this dynamic context, a high-level working visit by ANEF officials is scheduled for June 2026 in France. The aim is to strengthen technical cooperation, solidify institutional partnerships, and open new perspectives in forestry and environmental domains.
This strengthened partnership between Morocco and France illustrates a shared commitment to building sustainable, resilient, and forward-looking forest management, addressing climate challenges and promoting sustainable development.
