Vietnam and Morocco: A Deepening Friendship
Since the establishment of diplomatic ties on March 27, 1961, Vietnam and Morocco have enjoyed a robust and evolving friendship, strengthened through a shared history of solidarity against colonialism. Over the past 65 years, the relationship between the two nations has flourished, expanding comprehensively across various sectors. The diplomatic engagement between Vietnam and Morocco has thrived through three primary channels: Party diplomacy, state diplomacy, and popular diplomacy, all of which have implemented effective mechanisms for cooperation. Political and diplomatic relations continue to grow, bolstered by high-level visits and meetings. A notable instance was the visit of Tran Thanh Man, the President of the National Assembly of Vietnam, to Morocco in July 2025. This visit significantly deepened the ties between the two countries, focusing on enhancing cooperation in economic, commercial, and investment realms while also facilitating mutual support for expanding connections with other regions.
Furthermore, both nations collaborate regularly and mutually support each other in international forums, reflecting an increasing level of trust and commitment. Economically, Morocco recognized Vietnam as a fully market-oriented economy in December 2014. The economic and trade relations between the two countries are under the attention of leaders at all levels, aiming to establish a solid foundation for both nations to exploit their potential further and promote economic exchanges. Morocco stands as one of the most critical markets for Vietnam's exports in Africa. The bilateral trade has shown positive growth, with projections reaching over $302 million in 2024 and $380 million in 2025, with aspirations to hit the $500 million mark in the near future. Key Vietnamese exports to Morocco include coffee, cashews, spices, textiles, footwear, and electronic components, while Moroccan consumers have shown a growing interest in Asian foods, spices, and fast food, particularly in major cities.
Future Prospects and Cooperation Opportunities
Despite the achievements, both countries still possess vast untapped potential for collaboration in strategic sectors such as Halal industry, metallurgy, fertilizers, aviation, renewable energy, and green transition. Vietnam aspires to become a significant player in the international Halal market, and Morocco, with its expertise in Halal certification, is keen to assist Vietnam in enhancing its production capacity and expanding its market reach into Muslim countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for cooperation in the ecological transition process, particularly in innovative fields like green hydrogen, offshore wind energy, and carbon capture. On March 28, 2019, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen bilateral cooperation in environmental and sustainable development matters. Collaboration in education, culture, and tourism continues to be reinforced through scholarship programs, training, and exchanges. As the two countries prepare to celebrate the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026, a series of significant activities are planned. Building on this strong foundation of friendship, Vietnam and Morocco are oriented towards expanding substantial cooperation, improving its effectiveness, and leaving a more profound imprint on their bilateral relations, thereby enhancing the status of both nations regionally and internationally.
As reported by es.vietnamplus.vn.
