Europe and Morocco Forge Strategic Partnership
In a significant step towards bolstering relations, Kaja Kallas, the European Union's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, has hailed Morocco as a close, reliable, and strategic partner for the EU. During a press conference held in Rabat alongside Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Kallas emphasized that the EU stands as Morocco's primary trading partner, with trade exchanges between the two sides having expanded fivefold since the year 2000. This partnership is underpinned by a solid foundation, and efforts are underway to further enhance these ties. Kallas mentioned that EU Foreign Ministers have collectively approved an initiative aimed at intensifying cooperation, which is now being translated into tangible results.
The European representative, currently on a visit to Morocco, elaborated that the partnership encompasses various fields including ecological transformation, education, and investment. New programs focusing on skills development, entrepreneurship, and improving the business environment are now being added to the agenda. Kallas also highlighted Morocco's critical role in fostering cooperation across the Mediterranean region, contributing significantly to the charter for the Mediterranean.
Commitment to Regional Security and Political Support
Furthermore, Kallas confirmed preparations for a security dialogue and a regional security forum between the EU and Mediterranean countries, set to take place later this year. This forum aims to deepen collaboration in areas such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, and enhancing resilience against hybrid threats, with Morocco playing a central regional role in these initiatives.
Regarding the sensitive issue of Western Sahara, Kallas reiterated the European Union's support for the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2797. This resolution fully endorses the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his personal envoy to facilitate negotiations based on Morocco's proposed autonomy plan, aiming for a fair, lasting, and mutually acceptable resolution. She noted that the EU will continue to support the UN-led political process to find a resolution to this matter, stating that recent progress—particularly discussions facilitated by the United States in collaboration with the UN—is encouraging.
In response to a journalist's inquiry, Kallas remarked on the EU's partnerships with numerous countries, expressing her satisfaction with the reconvening of the partnership council with Morocco after a seven-year hiatus. While similar agreements exist with other nations, she acknowledged that not all are perfect and that it is essential to address concerns within these relationships, providing a platform to tackle such issues effectively. Kallas concluded by acknowledging the complexities inherent in international relations, asserting that the EU must navigate its challenges with neighboring countries, a situation that also applies to Morocco's circumstances.
As reported by hespress.com.
