Morocco is seeking to elevate its economic partnership with Portugal to a higher level, according to Othmane Bahnini, Morocco's ambassador to Lisbon. In a recent interview, Bahnini stated that the two countries have excellent and historical relations based on trust, mutual respect, and convergent views. He highlighted the 250th anniversary of the peace treaty between the two countries, signed on January 11, 1774, and the 30th anniversary of the friendship and good-neighborliness treaty.
The ambassador emphasized that the economic rapprochement between Morocco and Portugal has been strengthened by two major factors: geographic proximity and the experience of the Covid-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, countries like Morocco, Portugal, and Spain showed a spirit of neighborhood, recording significant growth in bilateral trade. Bahnini also noted that many Portuguese companies are present in the Moroccan market, particularly in the pharmaceutical, construction, agri-food, and textile sectors.
Morocco offers favorable conditions for the establishment of these companies, including institutional stability, geographic proximity, modern infrastructure, and a qualified and competitive workforce. The country's strategic location and network of free trade agreements also allow companies to access a market of over one billion consumers. Bahnini stressed the importance of strengthening cross-investments and economic integration, leveraging Morocco's presence in Africa and Portugal's presence in Lusophone countries.
The ambassador discussed the issue of migration, stating that the current model of cooperation with the European Union is outdated. Morocco intends to propose a new approach based on cooperation, regional stability, and shared development. He reaffirmed Morocco's commitment to fighting irregular migration and human trafficking networks, alongside European partners. Bahnini emphasized that Morocco assumes this responsibility in a sovereign and committed manner.
In the areas of energy and infrastructure, Bahnini highlighted the importance of the Morocco-Portugal electrical interconnection project. He believes that the growth of energy demand and supply security imperatives reinforce the need for its implementation. The co-organization of the 2030 World Cup by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain is another lever for consolidating the partnership between the three countries.
The ambassador noted that Morocco's ambition to host the final of the 2030 World Cup has a symbolic and historical dimension, coinciding with the centenary of the creation of the World Cup. He also believes that awarding Africa the organization of a second World Cup final would be a logical step, given the continent's significant human resources and promising potential, despite having hosted only one edition in 2010.
The strengthening of economic ties between Morocco and Portugal is part of a broader strategy to promote cooperation and development between the two countries. The two countries have a long history of cooperation, and the current efforts aim to further enhance their economic partnership. Key areas of cooperation include investment, trade, energy, and infrastructure, with a focus on promoting mutual benefits and sustainable development.
Key points
- Morocco aims to boost bilateral trade and investment with Portugal, leveraging their geographic proximity and existing relations.
