The King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, recently appointed Samira Sitaïl as the kingdom’s new ambassador to France. This appointment fills a position vacant for several months, in a context of diplomatic crisis between Rabat and Paris.
A former journalist, Samira Sitaïl held the position of director of information on the second public television channel 2M for many years. However, this is the first time she has taken on a diplomatic role.
The announcement of this appointment comes after the end of Mohamed Benchaâboun’s mandate as Moroccan ambassador to France. His departure coincided with the adoption by the European Parliament of a resolution ordering the Moroccan authorities to respect freedom of expression. Some media and the Moroccan political class had accused France of being at the origin of this initiative.
Tensions between Morocco and France have intensified in recent months, particularly after the earthquake which struck the Marrakech region, leading to the death of thousands of people. Rabat had refused the aid offered by Paris, which sparked controversy in France. The French president, Emmanuel Macron, described these controversies as useless.
Among the points of friction between the two countries, we also find France’s position in relation to Western Sahara. While the United States and Israel have recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over this region, largely controlled by the kingdom, the Polisario separatists, supported by Algeria, still claim their autonomy.
The arrival of Samira Sitaïl as Moroccan ambassador to France should make it possible to relaunch dialogue between the two countries and find solutions to the various points of friction. His experience as a journalist and his expertise in communications will be valuable assets in this diplomatic mission.
In conclusion, the appointment of Samira Sitaïl as Moroccan ambassador to France comes in a context of diplomatic crisis between the two countries. His experience as a journalist and his expertise in communication will be valuable assets in easing tensions and relaunching dialogue. Let us hope that this appointment is the start of a new era of cooperation between Morocco and France.