Marrakech Forum Sees Strategic Agreements for Regional Cooperation
On June 19, 2026, during the fourth edition of the Parliamentary Economic Forum held in Marrakech, two significant memorandums of understanding were signed aimed at enhancing economic cooperation among Africa, the Euro-Mediterranean region, and Gulf countries. These agreements are designed to establish robust frameworks for institutional collaboration that will support economic development, foster investments, and promote regional integration through dialogue among parliamentarians and economic stakeholders.
The first memorandum, signed between Morocco's House of Councillors and the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), will serve as a reference framework for cooperation between the two institutions. It underscores the high-level relations between Morocco and its neighboring African nations, aligning with the Royal vision to position Morocco's Atlantic coast as a gateway for African trade and a vital economic outlet for landlocked countries. This agreement, signed by Mohamed Ould Errachid, President of the House of Councillors, and Hadja Mémounatou Ibrahima, President of the ECOWAS Parliament, focuses on enhancing regional integration, supporting sustainable development initiatives, and fostering innovative partnerships between the public and private sectors.
Both parties are set to implement a work plan aimed at strengthening institutional and administrative capacities through training programs, expert exchanges, and sharing of best practices. Furthermore, the memorandum aims to bolster cooperation in economic parliamentary diplomacy by facilitating expertise exchanges in economic, financial, and investment legislation, along with organizing joint meetings that bring together parliamentarians, economic actors, and the private sector.
Second Agreement Focuses on Broader Economic Integration
The second memorandum was established between Mohamed Ould Errachid, President of the Association of Senates, Shoura, and Equivalent Councils of Africa and the Arab World (ASSECAA), and Giulio Centemero, President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (APM). This agreement sets out a framework for institutional cooperation and consultation between both parties, aimed at strengthening parliamentary dialogue and economic cooperation for development between Africa, the Euro-Mediterranean region, and the Gulf. It emphasizes the Atlantic dimension and highlights the importance of engaging Sahel countries in development dynamics, connectivity, and regional economic integration.
Moreover, the agreement seeks to support initiatives combating the effects of climate change while promoting sustainable development. It includes provisions for policies that encourage the creation of sustainable jobs, particularly for youth and women, while fostering discussions on issues related to energy, food, and water security. Lastly, it aims to enhance the openness of parliaments towards the Atlantic space and Latin America, recognized as strategic partners in advancing inter-regional cooperation.
As reported by fr.hespress.com.
