Morocco marks 60 years of independence from France

Morocco celebrates 60 years of the recognition of her independence by France on Wednesday.

Morocco became a French protectorate in 1912 although certain portions of the country were under Spanish control.

After a long struggle, Morocco’s independence was accepted by France in November 1955 and formally achieved on March 2, 1956.

Some Moroccans still remember the event which had a significant impact in the country’s history.

“When the French government recognise our independence, this means the ability to have an army and involve in diplomacy,” Moroccan official, Mbarek Si Bekkai said at that time..

France later supported the government of King Mohammed V in the formation of an army.

King Mohammed V reigned until his death in 1961 before handing over to his son Hassan II.

Significant political liberty only came in as from the 1990s.

Morocco had annexed the Western Sahara in 1975 which led to clashes between Morocco and the Polisario Front.

Political liberty was furthered extended in Morocco by King Mohammed VI after the death of King Hassan II in 1999.

Majority of Moroccans are Arabs and Berbers followed by a small Jewish community and then foreigners.