Influences
Morocco-France: Montpellier Chamber of Commerce Delegation to Visit Dakhla This Autumn
Cooperation Between Dakhla and Montpellier to Expand in Sports, Culture, and Tourism.
Montpellier Chamber of Commerce and Industry Delegation Scheduled for Autumn Visit.
« I had the privilege of visiting Morocco last April, specifically Fez, Rabat, Tangier, Casablanca, and Dakhla. I received an unforgettable welcome and witnessed the excellence and innovation of a country exemplary in terms of development across many areas: urban planning, water management, port infrastructure, renewable energy, sports, culture… », stated Michaël Delafosse, Mayor of Montpellier, in an interview with MAP.
He praised the « exemplary » level of development achieved by the Kingdom of Morocco in various sectors.
The President of Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole also applauded the strength of decentralized cooperation with several Moroccan cities.
« Local governments are a vital pillar of diplomacy and the robust relationship that binds France and Morocco today… It is an unbreakable bond connecting us and our populations », affirmed Mr. Delafosse.
In this context, he emphasized that Montpellier has always maintained « very strong ties » with the Kingdom.
« Many of my fellow citizens are of Moroccan origin or nationality. Their contributions to civic life are numerous and invaluable, and the partnerships and cooperation between our region and Moroccan territories are long-standing and vibrant », he noted, recalling Montpellier’s twinning agreement with Fez, established in 2003 and renewed during his recent visit to expand into new areas such as urban planning, transportation, and sports ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup, both to be hosted by Morocco.
Addressing decentralized cooperation with Dakhla, Mr. Delafosse highlighted meetings held with local authorities during his visit and expressed support for economic development projects led by Montpellier stakeholders, such as MGH Energy’s initiatives in decarbonized energy production, particularly for air transport.
He further stressed that cooperation with Dakhla will be strengthened in sports, culture, and tourism, announcing an upcoming autumn visit to the southern city by a delegation from the Montpellier Chamber of Commerce and Industry to advance these projects.
Concluding, he declared: « Now more than ever, the cooperation between our two countries is a relationship of equals. Cities and regions have a crucial role to play in this endeavor ».
