Azerbaijan and Morocco: Strengthening South-South ties in a divided world

Tuesday 08 July 2025 - 16:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Azerbaijan and Morocco: Strengthening South-South ties in a divided world

In an increasingly fragmented geopolitical environment, Azerbaijan and Morocco stand out as a model of constructive South-South cooperation. Their enduring partnership, rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and multilateral engagement, highlights the power of diplomacy to bridge regional divides.

Political dialogue and parliamentary diplomacy

Over three decades, Azerbaijan and Morocco have built a dynamic framework encompassing political dialogue, education, cultural exchange, and parliamentary diplomacy. Official visits have underscored both nations’ commitment to deepening ties. Notable visits include Moroccan Parliament Speaker Rachid Talbi Alami’s appearances in Baku in 2022 and 2023 and Milli Majlis Speaker Sahiba Gafarova’s visit to Rabat in 2023. These engagements have elevated bilateral ties to a strategic level.

Parliamentary diplomacy has played a pivotal role in fostering cooperation. Frequent meetings between Azerbaijan–Morocco interparliamentary working groups have strengthened legislative collaboration, policy alignment, and international coordination. Recent discussions have focused on shared goals in education, cultural connections, and global development.

Expanding trade and economic potential

While trade remains modest, it has shown significant growth. From January to February 2025, trade volume between Azerbaijan and Morocco rose by 56% compared to the same period in 2024, signaling untapped potential. The 7th session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation in Baku in May 2023 created new momentum for economic engagement, with Moroccan companies exploring opportunities in Azerbaijan’s tourism and energy sectors.

Cultural and educational diplomacy

Cultural ties between the two nations have deepened through high-profile events. In 2023, Princess Lalla Hasnaa of Morocco attended the International Carpet Festival in Baku, illustrating the cultural synergy between the countries. The Rabat Carpet Art Exhibition at Azerbaijan’s National Carpet Museum further showcased their shared appreciation for heritage.

Additionally, education exchanges have strengthened people-to-people connections. Azerbaijani university delegations have visited Morocco, while Moroccan students benefit from Azerbaijani scholarships, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.

Common multilateral platforms

Both nations share membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement, offering platforms for coordinated action on global challenges. Their advocacy for cultural preservation, fairer global governance, and development-oriented partnerships reflects their shared commitment to multilateralism.

Looking ahead

As Azerbaijan prepares to host the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in 2026, Morocco’s expertise in urban planning and sustainability will play a significant role. By investing in youth exchange, renewable energy, digital transformation, and regional connectivity, Azerbaijan and Morocco can transform their partnership into a catalyst for Afro-Eurasian dialogue and prosperity.

In a divided world, Azerbaijan and Morocco’s alliance is a testament to the enduring power of diplomacy rooted in trust, shared values, and mutual respect.