Strengthening Ties: King Mohammed VI and Emir of Qatar Discuss Bilateral Relations

Wednesday 11 December 2024 - 15:40

By: Dakir Madiha

Strengthening Ties: King Mohammed VI and Emir of Qatar Discuss Bilateral Relations

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, Morocco and Qatar have enjoyed a deep and multifaceted partnership, grounded in strong economic cooperation and mutual interests on regional matters. On December 10, 2024, King Mohammed VI of Morocco and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, held a phone conversation to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations, alongside addressing shared regional and international concerns.

During their exchange, Sheikh Tamim extended his well-wishes to King Mohammed VI, following his successful surgery. The conversation underscores the growing ties between the two countries, which have been marked by substantial economic collaboration and alignment on regional issues. Qatar has emerged as one of Morocco’s largest foreign investors, ranking fifth in terms of direct foreign investments by 2016. The two nations also formed a $2 billion joint venture fund in 2011, contributing equally to its creation.

In 2024, their relationship reached a new milestone when Morocco was chosen as Qatar’s partner for the prestigious Years of Culture initiative. Launched by Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani in 2012, this cultural exchange program includes more than 80 events across both countries. This marks Qatar’s first one-on-one cultural partnership with a North African nation. The year-long program is filled with diverse activities, including photography exchanges, artisan residencies, public workshops, exhibitions, culinary experiences, and sporting events. Key organizations from both countries, supported by Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, are collaborating to bring these initiatives to life.

The cultural exchange program has already seen significant events, such as the "Caftan Fashion Show" at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art, presided over by Princess Lalla Hasnaa and Sheikha Al Mayassa. This event celebrated Moroccan haute couture, showcasing the works of ten Moroccan designers whose collections were inspired by Arabic calligraphy and ghazal poetry. The cultural ties further strengthened in October when the collaboration extended to Marrakech, where both royal figures hosted the Fashion Trust Arabia gala at El Badi Palace. The event aimed to support Arab creators and included the announcement of the establishment of the Qatar Fashion Craft Council.

The relationship between Morocco and Qatar has proven resilient, even in the face of regional challenges. During the 2017 Qatari diplomatic crisis, Morocco remained neutral and offered to mediate the dispute while providing humanitarian aid to Qatar. King Mohammed VI’s visit to Doha during the crisis was viewed as part of Morocco’s diplomatic efforts to help resolve tensions in the Gulf.

In September 2023, the partnership was further cemented when Qatar sent rescue teams and medical aid to Morocco following the devastating 7.0-magnitude earthquake in Al-Haouz. King Mohammed VI expressed his gratitude for Qatar's timely support, as the Qatari International Search and Rescue Group participated in relief operations, bringing specialized equipment to assist with the recovery efforts.

The two countries also align on regional issues, notably in supporting Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara. In October 2024, Qatar’s UN representative, Jassim Al-Thani, praised the plan as a "constructive initiative" to resolve the long-standing dispute.

Economic cooperation continues to thrive as well, with trade between Morocco and Qatar reaching $70 million in 2015. Qatar has been involved in significant aid initiatives, including a $1.25 billion pledge to Morocco in 2013 as part of a larger GCC aid package.

Through strong diplomatic, cultural, and economic partnerships, Morocco and Qatar continue to deepen their ties, fostering collaboration in a wide range of sectors, from culture and fashion to regional security and development.