HM the King and H.E. the French president discussed at length the situation in the Middle East as well as regional and international issues, the statement said, adding that the two parties noted a shared viewpoint in this regard.

The two leaders lauded the excellent bilateral relations between Morocco and France and voiced their will to further them in all areas, mainly in the political, security, economic and cultural fields, it said.

This rich, deep, dynamic and exceptional partnership mirrors the solid foundation of a strategic relation, based on trust, mutual respect and fruitful cooperation to serve the interests of the two countries, said the same source.

HM the King reiterated to the president of the French Republic the invitation to pay a state visit to Morocco, the statement concluded.