Morocco Champions Enhanced China-Africa Partnership for Continental Progress

Friday 06 September 2024 - 12:40

Morocco is taking a leading role in advocating for stronger collaboration between China and Africa, viewing this partnership as a cornerstone for the continent's future development. This stance was prominently displayed at the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, where Morocco's Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, represented King Mohammed VI.

During the high-level conference focused on "Industrialization and Agricultural Modernization in Africa," Akhannouch emphasized Morocco's commitment to fostering Chinese-African cooperation. He highlighted the country's strategic position as a gateway to Africa, citing its political stability and economic appeal as key factors in attracting global partners.

The Moroccan leader referenced the 2016 state visit of King Mohammed VI to China, which resulted in a Joint Declaration establishing strategic partnership relations. This agreement, according to Akhannouch, exemplifies the significant potential for bilateral cooperation and the shared vision of both nations to unlock promising opportunities across the African continent.

Morocco's approach to this partnership is multifaceted, encompassing various sectors and initiatives:

1. Industrial Development: Akhannouch outlined Morocco's National Pact for Industrial Emergencies and Industrial Acceleration Plan, demonstrating the country's focus on bolstering its manufacturing capabilities.

2. Agricultural Modernization: The Green Morocco Plan and Generation Green initiative were highlighted as successful strategies for enhancing agricultural productivity and modernizing the sector.

3. Energy and Infrastructure: The Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project was presented as a prime example of continental cooperation and infrastructure development.

4. Innovation and Future Industries: Morocco expressed keen interest in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, aerospace construction, and green hydrogen production.

5. Regional Integration: The country's initiative to facilitate Sahel countries' access to the Atlantic Ocean was discussed as a means of promoting regional economic growth and connectivity.

6. Food Security: The efforts of OCP Group, Morocco's state-owned phosphate and fertilizer producer, in expanding its presence across Africa through the establishment of offices and industrial projects were emphasized.

Akhannouch stressed that Chinese-African cooperation has become increasingly crucial in addressing global challenges and navigating geopolitical shifts. He positioned Morocco as an ideal partner for both China and African nations, leveraging its strategic advantages and resources.

The strengthening of China-Africa ties comes at a time of robust bilateral relations between Morocco and China. Trade figures from 2021 indicate that Morocco exported $523 million worth of goods to China, while Chinese exports to Morocco reached $6.43 billion.

As Africa continues to seek avenues for industrial growth and agricultural advancement, Morocco's proactive stance in fostering partnerships with global economic powers like China could play a pivotal role in shaping the continent's economic future. The country's emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and regional cooperation aligns with the broader goals of African development and positions Morocco as a key facilitator in the evolving landscape of international economic relations.