Chad's Prime Minister Commends Morocco's Initiative to Boost Atlantic Access for Landlocked Sahel Nations

Friday 01 March 2024 - 11:22

In the pursuit of enhanced trade and investment opportunities for landlocked nations within Africa's Sahel region, Morocco's ambitious plan to revitalize the southern city of Dakhla into an economic nucleus emerges as a potential game-changer. During a recent visit to Washington D.C., Chad's Prime Minister, Succes Masra, praised King Mohammed VI's initiative aimed at facilitating maritime access for Sahel countries through Moroccan ports.

Masra lauded the strategy, unveiled last year, as "highly relevant" for regional development. Speaking at an event hosted by the influential Atlantic Council think tank, he emphasized Morocco's pioneering role in fostering South-South cooperation through ambitious infrastructure projects. The Prime Minister highlighted the invaluable lessons Sahel nations could derive from Morocco's experiences in areas such as renewable energy and economic integration.

At the heart of Morocco's initiative lies the objective of unlocking the myriad economic benefits associated with improved coastal access. The plan envisions Dakhla transforming into a logistics and trade center, linking Sahel countries to global markets while also fortifying economic ties within the region and attracting additional foreign capital. Masra reiterated Chad's commitment to partnerships that propel Africa's integration and foster shared prosperity.

The burgeoning trade between Morocco and West Africa underscores the pivotal role of maritime connectivity in reshaping commercial relationships. U.S. administration officials in attendance underscored the initiative's international significance, further solidified by its endorsement by Sahel foreign ministers in December, thereby cementing multi-party support.

Masra's commendation reflects the widening acknowledgment of Morocco's potential as a catalyst for economic integration in the Sahel. By leveraging its stable institutions and expertise in fields such as solar power and regional coordination, Morocco aspires to create brighter prospects for cooperation and development across Africa.