Laayoune, Morocco – In a move reflecting the depth of the exceptional partnership between Morocco and France, the French Ambassador to the Kingdom, Philippe Lalliot, inaugurated the new official headquarters of the French Alliance in Laayoune on Wednesday evening, marking his first visit to the southern provinces since his appointment.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by the Wali of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region, Abdeslam Bekrate, the President of the Laayoune Commune, Moulay Hamdi Ould Errachid, as well as prominent official, civil, and military delegations.
A New Cultural Landmark in the Heart of Laayoune
The inauguration of this cultural facility, which received official accreditation in December 2025, marks the center’s relocation from its temporary headquarters at the Higher School of Technology to its permanent site at the historic “Paul Pascon” International French High School building.
The building has undergone comprehensive renovations to become a modern space capable of hosting educational and cultural activities directed at youth and children.
Political and Symbolic Significance of the Visit
In his opening speech, Ambassador Philippe Lalliot emphasized that selecting Laayoune as his first destination in the southern provinces carries symbolic and political dimensions, expressing his pleasure in witnessing firsthand the major development projects taking place in the region.
The French diplomat explained that this center represents a new link in the network of French cultural institutions in Morocco, which now includes about 15 institutions, all aimed at fostering openness to Moroccan society.
Strengthening Cultural and Societal Bridges
Lalliot added that the role of the French Alliance is not limited to teaching the French language; it extends to enhancing dialogue between Moroccan and French civil societies and strengthening bridges of friendship and partnership built on a shared history and future aspirations.
He also noted the developmental dynamism experienced by Laayoune, praising strategic projects he observed during his visit, such as the University Hospital, vocational training centers, and water treatment units, affirming Paris’s readiness to continue supporting these projects.
For her part, El Alia Boukzaje, President of the French Alliance in Laayoune, presented an overview of the institution’s goals, noting that it seeks to provide an integrated cultural space that includes a modern media library, training programs, accredited international tests, as well as art and film workshops. Boukzaje emphasized that the project responds to the increasing demand for learning the French language and keeps pace with the educational boom the region is witnessing.
