Morocco launches “Digital Dialogue” with EU to boost AI ambitions
The European Union and Morocco have agreed to establish a framework for cooperation on artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure, according to a press release on 8 April, as both sides seek to play a larger role in the global technology landscape.
The initiative, launched as an EU–Morocco Digital Dialogue, is a formal framework for cooperation on policy and technology. It will focus on areas including artificial intelligence, support for start-ups, secure networks and the interoperability of public systems such as digital wallets.
The dialogue will also promote exchanges between Moroccan and European institutions, including cooperation between AI research centres and EU-backed “AI Factories”, as well as support for innovation and start-ups. Both sides said it would help build ecosystems around advanced computing and related technologies.
As part of the launch, EU Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen and Moroccan Minister Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni signed an administrative agreement on AI innovation. An early step under the arrangement includes a partnership between four European supercomputing centres and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco, which hosts Africa’s most powerful supercomputer.
The initiative builds on existing digital cooperation, including the Medusa submarine cable system linking Morocco to Europe and support for Morocco’s “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy aimed at expanding digital services.
The agreements form part of broader efforts by Morocco and the EU to raise their profile in the global artificial intelligence landscape, including ambitions to act as a “third voice” alongside other major technology powers, African Business reported.
It could also lead to further joint programmes currently under discussion, particularly in areas linked to digital transformation and innovation.
The launch comes as the EU and Morocco mark 30 years since their Association Agreement and seek to strengthen ties under broader regional frameworks such as the Pact for the Mediterranean, which promotes cooperation across the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, including in digital sectors.
European Commission, African Business, Maghrbei.org
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