Chinese President Xi Jinping to Visit Morocco: A Strategic Stopover
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in Morocco to enhance bilateral relations as part of his G20 summit trip. Morocco's strategic role in the Belt and Road Initiative positions it as a vital hub for trade and infrastructure development. Cooperation is expected in areas like energy, tourism, and investments, signaling a new partnership era.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Beijing's Growing Interest in Morocco
In a significant development, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to arrive in Morocco today, as part of his return journey from the G20 summit in Brazil and his official visit to Peru. The President's plane is scheduled to land at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca this evening.
According to sources, Crown Prince Moulay Hassan will receive President Xi Jinping, marking a significant moment in the growing bilateral relations between China and Morocco.
A Strategic Stopover
Morocco's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East has made it an attractive partner for China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). In 2017, Morocco became one of the first countries in Africa and the Arab world to join the BRI, a massive infrastructure development project launched by China in 2013.
Belt and Road Initiative: A Game-Changer for Global Trade
The BRI aims to recreate the ancient Silk Road, connecting Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East through a network of roads, railways, ports, and sea routes. With its unique geographical position and regional leadership, Morocco is poised to become a key hub for this program.
Growing Economic Cooperation
Morocco's membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), a China-led multilateral development bank, has further strengthened its ties with China. The AIIB, launched in 2015, aims to promote economic development and regional connectivity in Asia and beyond.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The China-Morocco partnership is expected to focus on several key areas, including:
- Infrastructure Development: China is likely to invest in Morocco's transportation infrastructure, including roads, railways, and ports.
- Energy Cooperation: Morocco and China may explore opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector, including renewable energy and nuclear power.
- Trade and Investment: The two countries are expected to strengthen their trade and investment ties, with a focus on promoting Moroccan exports to China.
- Tourism and Culture: China and Morocco may also explore opportunities for cooperation in the tourism and cultural sectors.
A New Era of Cooperation
President Xi Jinping's visit to Morocco marks a new era of cooperation between the two countries. As China continues to expand its global influence, Morocco is well-positioned to become a key partner in the region.
Table: China-Morocco Bilateral Trade (2015-2020)
| Year | China's Exports to Morocco | Morocco's Exports to China | Total Trade |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $2.3 billion | $1.1 billion | $3.4 billion |
| 2016 | $2.5 billion | $1.3 billion | $3.8 billion |
| 2017 | $2.8 billion | $1.5 billion | $4.3 billion |
| 2018 | $3.1 billion | $1.7 billion | $4.8 billion |
| 2019 | $3.4 billion | $2.0 billion | $5.4 billion |
| 2020 | $3.7 billion | $2.3 billion | $6.0 billion |
List: Key Chinese Companies Operating in Morocco
- China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)
- China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC)
- China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC)
- Huawei Technologies
- ZTE Corporation
As President Xi Jinping's visit to Morocco comes to a close, the two countries are expected to announce new initiatives and agreements to further strengthen their bilateral relations. With its strategic location and growing economic ties with China, Morocco is poised to become a key player in the Belt and Road Initiative.
