Eu and morocco launch digital dialogue to deepen tech cooperation

09:46

The European Union and Morocco have launched a digital dialogue aimed at strengthening strategic cooperation in technology and innovation, marking a new phase in their long standing partnership.

The initiative was announced during GITEX Africa 2026 in Marrakech by Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni and Henna Virkkunen. The move coincides with the 30th anniversary of the EU Morocco Association Agreement.

The dialogue focuses on advancing a digital economy built on data and artificial intelligence. It includes cooperation in AI development, startup support, secure digital infrastructure, and system interoperability between both sides.

Seghrouchni said the partnership reflects Morocco’s commitment to strengthening digital sovereignty while expanding international collaboration. She added that future agreements will prioritize artificial intelligence and digital technologies with a focus on public interest and measurable impact.

Virkkunen said the initiative will deliver practical benefits for businesses, startups, and research institutions in both regions. She highlighted plans to connect European AI infrastructure with Morocco’s innovation ecosystem, particularly through collaboration between research centers.

The partnership will support the development of secure and reliable digital networks and public infrastructure. It also includes the exchange of expertise and joint work on AI computing systems, aiming to strengthen research and innovation capacity.

As part of the first implementation phase, four European supercomputing centers have signed a letter of intent with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University. The university hosts one of Africa’s most advanced supercomputers and will play a central role in joint research efforts.

The cooperation builds on existing infrastructure projects, including the Medusa submarine cable system in Nador, and aligns with Morocco’s Digital Morocco 2030 strategy to expand digital public services.

Officials said the dialogue could lead to additional programs supporting startups, research collaboration, and the broader digital ecosystem. The initiative positions Morocco as a bridge between European technological capacity and Africa’s growing digital market.

GITEX Africa 2026 continues to serve as a platform connecting global technology actors with Africa’s innovation landscape, with more than 1,450 exhibitors and participants from over 145 countries.