Ambitious Agricultural Partnership between Morocco and Portugal
During a meeting dedicated to Moroccan-Portuguese cooperation, held on the sidelines of the 18th International Agricultural Fair in Morocco, Minister Al-Bawari articulated a clear ambition: to collaboratively establish a modern and innovative agricultural partnership that is resilient enough to address global challenges. This initiative aims to create opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity, benefiting farmers, local regions, and economies, while emphasizing the importance of integration to enhance competitiveness in European and African markets.
The minister highlighted that the selection of Portugal as the guest of honor for this fair carries significant meaning, reflecting the deep friendship and cooperative ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Portugal, as well as the shared desire to elevate agricultural partnership to a higher level of excellence.
Shared Agricultural Challenges and Strategic Collaboration
Al-Bawari noted that both countries, bonded by geographical proximity and historical connections, face similar agricultural realities and structural challenges. These include food security, sustainable management of natural resources, and adaptation to the impacts of climate change. He emphasized that these shared concerns lay the foundation for a common agricultural destiny, giving Moroccan-Portuguese cooperation a distinct strategic dimension. This ambition aligns with the forward-thinking vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who has consistently prioritized the development of a modern, resilient, and inclusive agricultural sector as a national strategic priority.
Furthermore, the minister outlined various priority areas framing the shared agenda between Morocco and Portugal, including agricultural research, the digital transformation of the agricultural sector, the development of strategic supply chains (such as seeds, red fruits, and specialized crops), innovation in the food industry, and enhancing cooperation through investments in public-private partnerships. He asserted that achieving these ambitions primarily relies on mobilizing all stakeholders involved, including research centers, enterprises, professionals, and others.
The 18th edition of the International Agricultural Fair in Morocco, organized under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, is hosting more than 1,500 exhibitors, 500 cooperatives, 200 livestock breeders, and 45 foreign delegations, with an expected attendance exceeding 1.1 million visitors. Spanning an area of 37 hectares, the fair continues until April 28 under the theme "Sustainability of Animal Production and Food Sovereignty," featuring participation from 70 countries, with Portugal as the guest of honor—a choice that reflects the exceptional relations between the two nations and the dynamic nature of their bilateral cooperation.
As reported by marrakechpost.com.
