Morocco seeks stronger ties with landlocked countries

At a UN conference which took place on August 5th, Morocco allegedly committed to prioritising cooperation with landlocked countries in Africa.

As Yabiladi reported, Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, reportedly pledged that Morocco’s international partnership policy would shift towards greater support for landlocked countries in Africa. The shift apparently aims to improve the living conditions of local populations and increase their development capabilities.

The outlet claims they intend to actualise these commitments through several programmes such as the royal initiative, which aims to give Sahel countries further access to the Atlantic Ocean.

Kayouh also reportedly noted a number of pioneering initiatives within Morocco’s new strategy, one in particular being the revitalisation of the three Climate Commissions launched in 2016 at the Africa Action Summit.

Furthermore, the minister purportedly welcomed the adoption of the new Awaza Action Plan for the decade of 2024-2034, emphasising Morocco’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, especially with developing countries.

According to the source, Morocco aims to counter major structural challenges these landlocked countries often face such isolation from international markets, high logistical costs, and increased vulnerability to global instability.

Morocco apparently called for the international community to follow in their efforts to increase cooperation with the landlocked countries through giving customised support that could drive meaningful structural change.

Morocco has been long advocating for a more united Africa. As Maghrebi reported on April 2nd, Morocco’s presidency of the Peace and Security Council has allowed many African countries to face challenges around artificial intelligence, climate change, and security challenges.

The kingdom has also reportedly become a member of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) which is a centralised market that prioritises real-time cost-effective border payments in local currencies specifically in Africa.

Morocco’s stance in the conference signifies their broader vision of a deeper continental solidarity, where stronger ties and tailored support for vulnerable countries can help unlock Africa’s full economic and social potential.

Yabiladi, Maghrebi.org