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Economy

India and Morocco: An Enduring Bond Forged Through Dynamic Diplomacy and Vibrant Exchange

Tuesday 16 January 2024 - 14:45

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Rabat - The second annual Rabat Networking Days facilitated enlightening dialogue and unveiled abundant opportunities, propelling students at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane into the heart of Rabat's diplomatic and communications landscape. Held on January 11-12, this two-day event seamlessly bridged the gap between academia and industry, catapulting emerging talents into the epicenter of Morocco's capital.

Against the backdrop of lush gardens, India's diplomatic presence in Morocco took the spotlight, showcasing the robust bonds between the two nations. Esteemed diplomat Ambassador Shri Rajesh Vaishnaw warmly greeted students, accentuating the amicable ties while delving into their historical roots.

Ambassador Vaishnaw, whose illustrious career spans posts across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, traced the relationship back to King Mohammed VI's groundbreaking visit to India in 2015. "Today, bilateral trade has exceeded almost $4 billion," he disclosed. "Numerous Indian companies have invested in Morocco, introducing cutting-edge technology and creating local job opportunities."

Indian exports to Morocco surged by over 105% in the last two years alone, with Morocco emerging as a premier destination for innovative products such as mobile devices, petroleum goods, and textiles. Other notable exports include auto parts, chemicals, plastics, and spices.

Beyond the realm of trade, the ambassador emphasized the crucial people-to-people connections. "We provide scholarships for Moroccan students to attend Indian universities and colleges," he pointed out. "Additionally, we send young professionals to India for short-term training, fostering South-South cooperation."

King Mohammed VI's inaugural visit in 2001 laid the foundation for strengthening ties, culminating in over 40 agreements in subsequent meetings. As trade surpassed $4 billion in 2022, the upward trajectory mirrored the diverse partnership.

Indian enterprises, such as IMACID, Sunpharma, and Tata, not only invested significantly but also played a pivotal role in shaping Morocco's economic landscape, particularly in the pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and infrastructure sectors.

However, it is the vibrant cultural exchange that has nurtured mutual understanding, with the popularity of Bollywood emphasizing cultural resonance. Recent years witnessed Moroccan participation in Indian music, dance, and specialized training programs, showcasing a shared commitment to knowledge exchange.

As Ambassador Vaishnaw pointed out, "We are actively working to further enhance youth engagement between our countries."

With its commitment to fostering educational and cultural bonds, the Indian Embassy in Rabat stands as a pillar of this robust partnership, paving the way forward for both nations.