Agadir – The seventh Ministerial Meeting of the Atlantic African States Process (AASP) commenced on Monday in Cotonou, co-chaired by Morocco and Benin. This gathering aims to enhance cooperation and bolster political coordination among nations in the African Atlantic region, embodying a collective commitment to fostering unity and collaboration.
According to a statement from Morocco's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the primary goal of the meeting is to “strengthen the political momentum of this African partnership under the enlightened leadership of King Mohammed VI.” The Moroccan delegation is spearheaded by Mohamed Methqal, the Ambassador and Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI). It also comprises Tarek Iziraren, the Permanent Secretary of the Atlantic African States Process, Morocco’s Ambassador to Benin, Rachid Rguibi, along with various officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates.
Advancing Morocco’s Vision for Atlantic Cooperation
The foreign ministry articulated that the Atlantic African States Process is a crucial element of King Mohammed VI’s vision to transform the African Atlantic region into “an area of peace, stability, and shared prosperity.” Initiated in Rabat in June 2022, this initiative has matured into a vital platform for reinforcing political dialogue and fostering practical collaboration among African nations bordering the Atlantic Ocean.
Since its launch, the process has successfully established a permanent secretariat in Rabat, formed three thematic working groups, and adopted a comprehensive joint action program. This program encompasses various critical areas, including political dialogue, security, the blue economy, maritime connectivity, energy, and marine environmental protection. These endeavors are designed to build a cohesive framework for cooperation that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the Atlantic African states.
Building on Past Achievements
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that prior ministerial meetings held in Rabat, New York alongside the United Nations General Assembly, and Praia in May 2025 have generated declarations and action plans aimed at enhancing collaboration among Atlantic African states. These initiatives have concentrated on pivotal issues such as strengthening maritime security and connectivity, preserving fisheries resources, supporting energy transitions, and promoting sustainable development across the region.
The current meeting in Cotonou aims to leverage these achievements to further coordinate efforts among member states, thereby supporting the integration and collective development of the Atlantic African region. The Atlantic African States Process epitomizes Morocco’s broader diplomatic strategy to advance regional integration and foster deeper cooperation among African countries situated along the Atlantic coastline. Through collaborative action on security, economic development, and environmental sustainability, this initiative aspires to create a prosperous and stable future for all member nations.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
