France approves public financing for private ventures in Moroccan Sahara

France has granted its development agencies permission to finance projects in the Moroccan Sahara, according to local media. 

The policy shift is expected to be formally unveiled during the French foreign trade minister's forthcoming visit to Rabat. 

Historically, French private enterprises have engaged in the Sahara; however, this marks the inaugural instance of France endorsing public funding for private ventures within the region.