Inauguration of the 7th Ministerial Meeting of the African Atlantic States Process in Cotonou
The 7th ministerial meeting of the African Atlantic States Process (AASP) commenced on July 13, 2026, in Cotonou, co-chaired by Morocco and Benin. This significant gathering aims to consolidate the political momentum of this African partnership, under the guidance of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. The Moroccan delegation, led by Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, who is also the Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), includes prominent figures such as the Permanent Secretary of the AASP, Tarik Iziraren, and the Moroccan Ambassador to Benin, Rachid Rguibi, alongside other officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad.
Advancements and Future Goals of the African Atlantic States Process
The African Atlantic States Process is an embodiment of King Mohammed VI’s vision to transform the Atlantic African space into a region characterized by peace, stability, and shared prosperity. Since its inception in June 2022 in Rabat, the process has made remarkable progress, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat, the formation of three thematic groups, and the adoption of a joint action plan focusing on political dialogue, security, blue economy, maritime connectivity, energy, and marine environmental protection.
Previous ministerial meetings held in Rabat, New York during the UN General Assembly sessions, and Praia in May 2025 have led to the adoption of various declarations and action plans aimed at enhancing cooperation among Atlantic coastal African states in areas such as maritime security, sustainable resource management, energy transition, and sustainable development.
The Cotonou meeting is a continuation of this dynamic, emphasizing the importance of coordination among member states to promote integration and co-development within the African Atlantic space.
As reported by diplomatie.ma.
