Moroccan Prime Minister Attends Reception Hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping
Morocco Strengthens Ties with Africa and China at FOCAC Summit
Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch attended a reception hosted by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. The event welcomed heads of state and government participating in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Akhannouch represented King Mohammed VI of Morocco at the summit, taking place in the Chinese capital from September 4th to 6th. The Moroccan delegation also includes prominent figures such as Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, and Mohcine Jazouli, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of Investment, Convergence, and Evaluation of Public Policies.
This year marks the 24th anniversary of FOCAC, a testament to the enduring partnership between China and the African continent. This unique relationship is built on the fundamental principles of solidarity, cooperation, and respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Established in October 2000, FOCAC stands as one of the oldest regional forums in China. The forum’s significance was further underscored in 2006 when Beijing announced the creation of a $5 billion China-Africa Development Fund, highlighting China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s economic growth.
FOCAC: A Platform for South-South Cooperation
FOCAC has become a crucial platform for South-South cooperation, fostering dialogue and collaboration on issues of mutual interest. The forum has facilitated numerous projects in infrastructure development, morocco-hit-record-high-in-2023/” title=”US Agricultural Exports to Morocco Hit Record High in 2023″>trade, investment, agriculture, healthcare, and education across Africa.
China’s engagement with Africa has significantly increased in recent years, with trade between the two reaching record highs. According to the Chinese General Administration of Customs, bilateral trade volume reached $282 billion in 2021. China has also become a major investor in Africa, funding infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, ports, and power plants.
Morocco: A Key Partner in China-Africa Relations
Morocco plays a vital role in strengthening China-Africa relations. The Kingdom has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with China, marked by strong economic ties and growing cultural exchanges. Morocco was one of the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China in 1958.
In recent years, Morocco has emerged as a gateway for Chinese investment in Africa. The country’s strategic location, stable political environment, and business-friendly policies make it an attractive destination for Chinese companies. Morocco is also a signatory to the Belt and Road Initiative, a global development strategy adopted by the Chinese government.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Shared Prosperity
The participation of the Moroccan delegation in the FOCAC summit reflects the country’s commitment to deepening its partnership with China and fostering greater cooperation with African nations. As China and Africa continue to strengthen their ties, Morocco is well-positioned to play a leading role in shaping the future of this dynamic relationship.
