Morocco Strengthens Ties with Africa at China-Africa Cooperation Forum as Prime Minister Represents King at Summit
Rabat, Morocco – Morocco’s Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, touched down in Beijing today, ready to represent King Mohammed VI at the China-Africa Cooperation Forum Summit. This high-profile event, taking place from September 4th to 6th, marks the 24th anniversary of the Forum and underscores the deepening partnership between China and the African continent.
Akhannouch’s presence at the summit, in lieu of the weekly government meeting in Rabat, highlights the importance Morocco places on fostering strong relationships within Africa. The Forum, often referred to as FOCAC, is built on principles of solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Upon arrival at Beijing International Airport, Akhannouch was greeted by Li Yunze, China’s Minister of Finance. He is joined by a delegation of high-ranking Moroccan officials, including 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’s FOCAC summit is expected to focus on strengthening economic ties between China and Africa. China has become Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a record $282 billion in 2021, according to the Chinese General Administration of Customs. A delegation of Moroccan business leaders, headed by Chakib Alj, President of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), will also participate in the eighth Conference of Chinese and African Entrepreneurs, held in conjunction with the FOCAC Summit.
Morocco’s participation in the Forum underscores its commitment to South-South cooperation and its strategic vision for engaging with key global players. As the African continent continues to emerge as a hub for economic growth and development, Morocco is proactively strengthening its ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
