Significant Progress in Morocco-Niger Relations
During the inauguration of the 5th session of the Joint Commission, a speech highlighted the importance of this meeting as a crucial step in reaffirming the historical ties that bind Morocco and Niger. The minister emphasized the mutual commitment to elevate these relations to the level of a multidimensional strategic partnership. He noted Morocco’s unwavering dedication to South-South cooperation under the wise leadership of His Majesty the King, which he referred to as a consistent strategic choice and a fundamental pillar of the nation's foreign policy. Furthermore, he recalled the significant royal initiatives aimed at achieving continental integration, including the Atlantic States Initiative and the Royal Initiative to facilitate access for Sahel states to the Atlantic Ocean—two initiatives that converge towards a shared goal: creating favorable conditions for a new era of common development, security, and stability across the continent.
Commitment to Cooperation and Security
Additionally, the Foreign Minister reaffirmed Morocco's full solidarity with Niger in its fight against terrorism and violent extremism, strongly condemning the terrorist attacks targeting sensitive installations within the country. Praising the resilience of Niger's forces, the minister highlighted the importance of the religious dimension in preventing extremism through the training of imams and preachers at the Mohammed VI Institute, which produces tangible results that contribute to consolidating intellectual and spiritual security in Niger. Mr. Bourita emphasized that this fifth session of the Joint Commission would represent a 'qualitative turning point' in bilateral cooperation, marked by the signing of several agreements and memorandums of understanding across vital sectors. These sectors aim to diversify and enrich the partnership, particularly in renewable energy, the pharmaceutical industry, health, transportation, infrastructure, youth, and sports.
The minister also recognized the positive role played by the Moroccan private sector in Niger through investments in banking, telecommunications, and air transport. He expressed his conviction regarding the promising potential for developing and expanding these investments for the benefit of both countries. Furthermore, he praised the level of cooperation in academic, cultural, and religious fields, through annual scholarship programs offered to Nigerien students. Ultimately, Mr. Bourita reiterated Morocco's determination to make this session 'a new starting point towards a more advanced phase' in bilateral relations, aligning with the expectations of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and His Excellency President Abdourahamane Tiani of Niger, who embody the optimal model of African cooperation based on active solidarity and mutually beneficial partnership.
As reported by diplomatie.ma.
