MORONI, Comoros — Comoros has sharply criticised France after Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu suggested that French development assistance could be linked to greater Comorian cooperation in combating irregular migration toward Mayotte.

The remarks have triggered a strong reaction from Comorian authorities and political figures, who described the approach as unacceptable and connected the issue to the country's long-running claim over Mayotte.

The dispute is particularly sensitive because Mayotte, administered by France, remains claimed by Comoros. Migration between the Comorian islands and Mayotte has also become a major regional political and humanitarian issue.

The latest confrontation could put additional pressure on relations between Moroni and Paris, particularly over development assistance, migration controls and the status of Mayotte.

Comorian officials are expected to maintain their position that cooperation on migration should not undermine the country's broader political and territorial claims.

The development adds another layer to an already complicated relationship between Comoros and France and could keep the Mayotte question and migration policy high on the regional political agenda.