A Rich Historical Bond
The diplomatic relationship between Vietnam and Morocco is rooted in a unique and profound history that dates back far beyond their official establishment on March 27, 1961. Throughout the 20th century, both nations fought against colonialism, which fostered a spirit of solidarity and friendship between their peoples. Over the past 65 years, this bond has not only endured but has flourished across various sectors, showcasing the commitment of both nations to deepen their ties.
At the core of this partnership lies a shared legacy that is carefully preserved by the citizens of both countries. This connection is symbolized by two significant landmarks: the 'Gate of Morocco' in Ba Vi, Hanoi, which was restored and inaugurated in 2018, and the traditional-style 'Vietnamese Village Gate' unveiled in 2022 in Kenitra, Morocco. These structures embody the enduring affection, solidarity, and friendship that persists between Vietnam and Morocco.
Enhancing Economic and Sectoral Cooperation
Over the decades, the bilateral relations between Vietnam and Morocco have evolved through various channels, including party, state, and public exchanges. Political and diplomatic ties have seen significant strides, highlighted by regular high-level visits. Notably, during a recent official visit to Morocco in July 2025, the President of the National Assembly, Trân Thanh Mân, engaged in discussions with leaders of both chambers of the Moroccan Parliament and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to bolster economic and trade cooperation, aiming to elevate it to match their political relations and promote mutual investments, thereby positioning each other as gateways to their respective regions.
Morocco has also increased its visits to Vietnam, with notable delegations including Prime Minister Abbas El Fassi in 2008 and House of Representatives President Habib El Malki in 2017, alongside other parliamentary leaders who have participated in international forums hosted in Vietnam.
The two nations benefit from structured cooperation mechanisms, such as the Vietnam-Morocco Intergovernmental Committee, political consultations between foreign ministries since 2004, and a dedicated sub-committee for trade and industry established in 2022. Friendship associations set up in Morocco in 2017 and Vietnam in 2021 further contribute to strengthening civil society ties.
On the international stage, Morocco actively supports Vietnam in multilateral organizations, most notably during its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (2020-2021) and as a member of the Human Rights Council (2023-2025).
Recognizing Vietnam as a market economy in 2014 has led to a growing focus on economic and trade relations. Today, Morocco ranks among Vietnam's top ten export markets in Africa. Bilateral trade continues to progress steadily, reaching over $302 million in 2024 (a 28.5% increase year-on-year) and approximately $380 million in 2025 (a 25% increase). Both countries aim for a trade volume of $500 million in the coming years.
Several Vietnamese products have already established a presence in the Moroccan market, including coffee, cashew nuts, pepper, spices, electronic components, textiles, and footwear. There is a rising demand in Morocco for Asian food products and competitive consumer goods, particularly in major urban centers. Furthermore, various sectors present opportunities for cooperation, such as halal industry, metallurgy, fertilizers, aerospace, textiles, and footwear. With its expertise in halal certification, Morocco is poised to assist Vietnam in developing products for markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
Green transition is another promising area, particularly in green hydrogen, offshore wind, and carbon capture technologies. A memorandum of understanding signed in 2019 already outlines cooperation in environmental and sustainable development.
In the field of education, Morocco has provided scholarships to Vietnamese students annually since 2011, and cooperation extends to training in journalism and diplomacy. Cultural and tourism exchanges are gradually developing, helping to bring the two peoples closer together.
This year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, celebrated through various activities. With a strong foundation, Vietnam and Morocco aim to continue building a sustainable partnership that fosters new achievements and an ever-richer shared legacy.
As reported by lecourrier.vn.
