Moroccan Prime Minister Fatima Zahra El Mansouri, representing King Mohammed VI, attended the third Russia-Africa Summit in Moscow. She emphasized that the King has consistently prioritized Africa in Morocco's foreign policy. El Mansouri highlighted the King's initiatives, including the Atlantic African States initiative and the royal initiative to connect Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean. These initiatives aim to promote development and stability in West Africa.
El Mansouri stressed that King Mohammed VI believes Africa needs all its international partners. She noted that cooperation formulas should be comprehensive, respectful, and goal-oriented. The Prime Minister also mentioned that the Russia-Africa partnership has reached a new stage, shifting from planning to action. She emphasized the importance of aligning plans with Africa's priorities, including food security, energy, and technology transfer.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the Russia-Africa partnership, which has achieved notable successes. She mentioned that trade between Russia and Africa exceeded $27.7 billion in 2025. El Mansouri also emphasized that Morocco is committed to this partnership and is willing to support it with its expertise. She noted that Africa's strength lies in its natural resources, human capital, and geographic location.
El Mansouri discussed Morocco's relations with Russia, which have been strengthened since the strategic partnership was established in 2002. She noted that Morocco is one of Russia's top economic partners in Africa, with trade exchanges reaching $630 million in 2025. The Prime Minister also mentioned that over 7,000 Moroccan students are studying in Russia.
The Prime Minister identified areas for further cooperation, including energy, science, and technology. She mentioned that a working committee was established between the two countries' foreign ministries to explore new cooperation opportunities. El Mansouri emphasized that Morocco is committed to deepening its dialogue with Russia and exploring new cooperation avenues.
El Mansouri concluded that the Russia-Africa Summit is an opportunity to determine future steps. She emphasized the importance of strengthening the partnership's institutional framework to promote African aspirations. The Prime Minister also highlighted the need for cooperation in areas such as food security, energy, and economic development.
The summit, held after seven years since the Sochi summit and three years since the St. Petersburg summit, marks a significant milestone in the Russia-Africa partnership. El Mansouri's participation represents Morocco's commitment to this partnership and its efforts to strengthen cooperation with Africa and Russia.
Key points
- Morocco prioritizes Africa in its foreign policy, as emphasized by King Mohammed VI.
- The Russia-Africa partnership has achieved notable successes, with trade exceeding $27.7 billion in 2025.
- Morocco and Russia are committed to deepening their cooperation in areas such as energy, science, and technology.
