The CGEM and MEDEF, through the France-Morocco Business Leaders Club, are set to host an Economic Forum on October 9, 2025, in Dakhla, attracting over 300 participants. This event underscores the deepening bilateral ties following President Emmanuel Macron's official visit to Rabat at the invitation of King Mohammed VI. During this visit, the French President affirmed that «the present and future of the Sahara fall within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty», according to the organizers. In a joint statement, they highlighted that «the choice of the city of Dakhla carries both strategic and economic significance», in a region deemed a «showcase of Morocco's dynamism and potential», enhanced by its «structural investments and its regional and continental openness». «For French entrepreneurs, this meeting will provide an opportunity to explore an emerging market that combines national attractiveness with a bridge between Europe and Africa», the source stated. Besides «strengthening existing partnerships», the forum offers a platform to «identify new synergies» while reinforcing cooperation «between the French and Moroccan business communities». For business leaders from both countries, it will also be a chance to «jointly explore opportunities in strategic sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure and logistics, sustainable tourism and hospitality, agri-food and food security, innovative services and digital technology, as well as training and skills development». This gathering builds on the business forum held in April 2024 in Rabat, which culminated in the creation of a white paper, the «roadmap for entrepreneurial cooperation». In October 2024, Rabat hosted a second meeting, attended by Emmanuel Macron, where approximately twenty economic agreements were signed across sectors including finance, desalination, energy, and new technologies.
