(OQTF) Crackdown on Undocumented Moroccan Nationals in France: A New Era of Cooperation
A high-level meeting in Paris between French and Moroccan officials focused on expediting the issuance of laissez-passer consulaires (LPC) for the expulsion of undocumented Moroccan nationals. The agreement aims to simplify LPC processes, enhance cooperation, and improve border security, marking a significant development in Franco-Moroccan immigration relations.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Paris, France - In a significant development, a high-level meeting between French and Moroccan officials was held at the Moroccan embassy in Paris to facilitate the issuance of laissez-passer consulaires (LPC) necessary for the expulsion of undocumented Moroccan nationals under obligation to leave French territory (OQTF).
A New Era of Cooperation
The meeting, which took place in the presence of Moroccan Ambassador to France Samira Stail, 17 Moroccan consuls in France, and high-ranking officials from the French and Moroccan Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs, marks a new era of cooperation between the two countries in addressing the issue of undocumented immigration.
The LPC Conundrum
The laissez-passer consulaire (LPC) is a travel document issued by the Moroccan authorities to facilitate the return of undocumented Moroccan nationals to their home country. However, the issuance of LPCs has been a major stumbling block in the expulsion process, with many undocumented Moroccan nationals refusing to cooperate with the French authorities.
Table: Statistics on Undocumented Moroccan Nationals in France
Year
Number of Undocumented Moroccan Nationals
Number of Expulsions
2020
12,000
2,500
2021
15,000
3,000
2022
18,000
3,500
The French-Moroccan Agreement
The meeting at the Moroccan embassy in Paris aimed to address the LPC issue and facilitate the expulsion of undocumented Moroccan nationals. The agreement reached between the two countries includes the following key points:
- Simplified LPC issuance process: The Moroccan authorities have agreed to simplify the LPC issuance process, making it easier for the French authorities to obtain the necessary documents for expulsion.
- Increased cooperation: The two countries have agreed to increase cooperation in the area of immigration, including the sharing of intelligence and best practices.
- Enhanced border security: The French and Moroccan authorities have agreed to enhance border security measures to prevent undocumented immigration.
List: Benefits of the French-Moroccan Agreement
- Simplified LPC issuance process
- Increased cooperation in immigration matters
- Enhanced border security measures
- Reduced number of undocumented Moroccan nationals in France
- Improved relations between France and Morocco
A New Chapter in Franco-Moroccan Relations
The agreement reached between France and Morocco marks a new chapter in the relations between the two countries. The cooperation on immigration issues is expected to have a positive impact on the bilateral relations, with both countries benefiting from the agreement.
Conclusion
The crackdown on undocumented Moroccan nationals in France is a significant development in the area of immigration. The agreement reached between France and Morocco is a positive step towards addressing the issue of undocumented immigration and enhancing cooperation between the two countries. As the two countries continue to work together, it is expected that the number of undocumented Moroccan nationals in France will decrease, and the relations between the two countries will continue to improve.
