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Strengthening Strategic Ties Morocco and Russia's Growing Partnership in Fisheries and Agriculture
The growing collaboration between Morocco and Russia, particularly in the fields of agriculture and fisheries, highlights the strategic convergence of interests between the two nations. This partnership, which began in 2020, has been gradually evolving and now includes the extension of cooperation in fishing resources, particularly in the Atlantic waters off Morocco’s coast.
A new agreement allows the Russian fleet to capture up to 10,000 tons of pelagic fish, including sardines, mackerel, and anchovies, in Morocco’s Atlantic waters. This authorization is part of a broader, ongoing agreement that has been renewed multiple times since its initial signing. Although initially limited in scope, the agreement has been extended through the end of this year, with discussions underway to establish a long-term and sustainable cooperation framework. This renewal reflects a mutual desire to intensify economic exchanges, particularly in the fishing sector, where Russian interests align with Morocco’s resources and expertise.
The agreement covers several strategic aspects, including research and innovation, skill transfer, as well as monitoring and regulation. It is also supported by scientific studies conducted by Moroccan authorities, which help adjust annual fishing quotas based on the state of fish stocks. Currently, the total catch limit for the Russian fleet stands at 140,000 tons per year, a figure that can be revised depending on conservation needs.
Moroccan Sahara: A Key Aspect of the Cooperation
A noteworthy aspect of this partnership is the inclusion of waters off the Moroccan Sahara. While some countries have hesitated to recognize this region's sovereignty, Morocco maintains its stance, and Russia appears to respect this position. This is evident in the agreements that explicitly include these areas for fishing.
The European Court of Justice's ruling to annul fishing agreements between the European Union and Morocco, due to the inclusion of the Moroccan Sahara, created a gap that countries like Russia are eager to fill. However, Morocco clarifies that its discussions with Russia were already well advanced before this ruling, emphasizing that its cooperation policy is based on respecting its territorial integrity.
Agricultural Cooperation: A Strong Economic Complementarity
Beyond fisheries, Morocco and Russia are also strengthening their cooperation in the agricultural sector, particularly in the trade of cereals. Russia is a major supplier of wheat to Morocco, helping to address the growing demand amid global food insecurity worsened by climate change. This agricultural interdependence highlights a promising economic complementarity, underpinned by both countries’ desire to diversify their commercial exchanges.
Ongoing negotiations to extend and expand the fishing agreement reflect a shared ambition to solidify this collaboration into a sustainable framework. For Russia, access to Morocco's rich fishing grounds represents a strategic opportunity to meet domestic needs and enhance its economic presence in Africa. For Morocco, the partnership with Russia is part of a broader strategy to diversify its economic partnerships, particularly in a geopolitical environment marked by growing tensions.
A Model of Effective Bilateral Cooperation
In conclusion, the Morocco-Russia alliance, built on converging interests and mutual respect, is proving to be a model of effective bilateral cooperation. Whether in the fisheries or agricultural sectors, this partnership continues to demonstrate its strategic potential, highlighting a proactive and pragmatic approach to economic diplomacy. By capitalizing on its resources and solidifying alliances with key global players like Russia, Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in the global economic landscape.