French Minister Affirms Support for Moroccan Sovereignty in Historic Sahara Visit

French Culture Minister Rachida Dati's recent visit to the disputed Western Sahara marks the first visit by a French official to the region, reinforcing France's support for Morocco's sovereignty. During her trip, which included stops in Laayoune and Dakhla, Dati inaugurated a French cultural center aimed at enhancing cultural cooperation and education, alongside the establishment of a regional branch of the Higher Institute of Audiovisual and Cinema Professions. The visit has sparked controversy, with the Polisario Front condemning it as illegal and a violation of Sahrawi rights, calling on international bodies to intervene. Dati's trip also included discussions on cultural collaboration, including a roadmap for video game production and other cultural initiatives. This development reflects a shift in France's stance, aligning more closely with Morocco's autonomy plan, which has drawn criticism from Algeria and the Polisario Front. The United Nations continues to classify Western Sahara as a non-self-governing territory, seeking a resolution to the long-standing dispute.