The Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region welcomed a high-level delegation of French young elected officials on Saturday as part of a visit aimed at showcasing the region’s economic transformation and major development projects. The stop in Dakhla formed part of a broader mission to Morocco.
Led by French Senate Vice President Xavier Iacovelli, the delegation met with El Khattat Yanja, president of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab Regional Council, and Faysal Sahmani, acting director general of the Regional Investment Center (CRI).
The discussions focused on the region’s flagship development projects, the sectors driving its economy, and opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Morocco and France across several fields.
Following the meetings, Iacovelli praised the region’s development momentum and highlighted the opportunities it offers for expanding bilateral cooperation.
He also welcomed the positive trajectory of Morocco-France relations, saying the strengthening partnership between the two countries provides a favorable framework for expanding economic and institutional cooperation between Rabat and Paris.
Théo Amsallem, president of the Les Jeunes Républicains movement, reaffirmed his party’s longstanding commitment to the friendship between Morocco and France and welcomed France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara.
He also expressed hope that young political leaders would help strengthen the bilateral partnership by supporting ongoing development projects, particularly in Morocco’s southern provinces.
For his part, El Khattat Yanja said the visit provided an opportunity to present the French delegation with an overview of the region’s major development initiatives, flagship infrastructure projects, and the key sectors driving its economic growth.
Dakhla Atlantic Port takes center stage
Yanja added that discussions also covered prospects for cooperation with France in areas including investment, tourism, renewable energy, fisheries, agriculture, urban planning, vocational training, and higher education.
Sahmani said the meeting reflected the special relationship between Morocco and France. It also provided an opportunity to showcase the region’s investment potential, ongoing strategic projects, and efforts to further enhance its economic attractiveness.
The delegation’s program also includes several site visits, allowing members to see firsthand the region’s flagship infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Dakhla Atlantic Port.
