On July 21, 2026, Cotonou hosted the 7th Session of the Benin-Morocco Joint Commission for Cooperation, an event that signifies a pivotal moment in the enhancement of diplomatic and economic relations between Cotonou and Rabat. This gathering reflects the shared commitment of both nations to invigorate their collaborative efforts, establishing a foundation for future growth and partnership.
The discussions during this session allowed both parties to review the principal areas of their cooperation while agreeing on new initiatives in several priority sectors. The dialogue prominently focused on the development of economic and trade relations, the promotion of investments, academic cooperation, the mobility of individuals, and collaborative efforts concerning regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Mr. Nasser Bourita, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad, emphasized the significance of this 7th Joint Commission session in the context of bilateral relations between Benin and Morocco. He praised the democratic maturity of the Beninese people and the vision of President Romuald Wadagni, reiterating Morocco's commitment to strengthening ties with Cotonou by contributing to the nation’s development.
Mr. Hugues Oscar Lokossou, the Minister Delegate to the Minister of Economy and Finance, responsible for mobilizing external resources and debt management, expressed that, "The South-South Cooperation model we are building between Cotonou and Rabat is a concrete response to the aspirations of our respective peoples. By combining our efforts, talents, and resources, we can create a space of shared prosperity." This sentiment encapsulates the collaborative spirit that both nations aim to foster.
During this pivotal meeting, 14 strategic cooperation agreements were signed, covering a broad spectrum of shared interests, including economy, trade, industry, finance, security, technical and vocational training, higher education and scientific research, scholarship cooperation, sports, culture, and religious cooperation, among others. These agreements significantly bolster the legal framework for Benin-Morocco cooperation and open ambitious avenues for socio-economic development and regional integration.
"I hope that in the near future, all the signed agreements will translate into concrete projects across a multitude of fields. I assure you that we will soon be in Rabat to prepare the next steps of this beautiful partnership," stated Ms. Corinne Amori Brunet, the Minister of Foreign Affairs responsible for the integration of Afro-descendants.
The importance of this intergovernmental meeting was underscored by the presence of Ms. Sèdami Medegan Fagla, the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research in charge of Technical Training, as well as a robust delegation of officials, experts, and high-ranking personalities from both countries.
As reported by gouv.bj.
