Morocco and China: Strengthening Strategic Relations through the Belt and Road Initiative
A report underscores the strengthening of Morocco-China relations, driven by the Belt and Road Initiative since King Mohammed VI's 2016 Beijing visit. This partnership enhances economic cooperation, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure, while bolstering Morocco's regional influence. It reflects China's expanding presence in North Africa amidst shifting global dynamics.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
A recent report by the Modern Diplomacy Europe magazine has highlighted the growing importance of Morocco-China relations, particularly in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The report notes that the two countries have made significant progress in their bilateral relations since King Mohammed VI's visit to Beijing in 2016, which resulted in the signing of several strategic agreements.
Enhancing Economic Cooperation
The report emphasizes that the BRI has been a key driver of Morocco's economic and industrial development, enabling the country to strengthen its position in Africa and the world. The initiative has also facilitated the growth of Moroccan-Chinese cooperation in renewable energy and infrastructure projects, particularly in the southern regions of Morocco.
Table: Key Areas of Cooperation
Area
Description
Trade and Industry
Enhancing bilateral trade and industrial cooperation
Renewable Energy
Developing and upgrading renewable energy projects
Infrastructure
Improving infrastructure in southern Morocco
Investment
Encouraging Chinese investment in Morocco
Strategic Partnership
The report highlights the significance of the Moroccan-Chinese strategic partnership, which has enabled the two countries to explore new investment opportunities and strengthen their economic ties. The partnership has also facilitated the growth of Chinese investment in Morocco, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and infrastructure.
China's Growing Influence in North Africa
The report notes that China has been seeking to expand its influence in North Africa, particularly in the wake of France's declining influence in the region. Morocco has been a key player in this context, with China seeking to strengthen its diplomatic relations with the country.
Quote
"Morocco-China relations are part of the multipolarity of the global system, with China seeking to enhance its international influence through the Belt and Road Initiative. Morocco has become a key player in the implementation of this economic initiative since the signing of the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement in 2016."
— Jamal Ait Laadem, author of the report
List: Benefits of the Morocco-China Partnership
- Economic Growth: The partnership has facilitated the growth of Moroccan-Chinese economic cooperation, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and infrastructure.
- Investment: The partnership has encouraged Chinese investment in Morocco, particularly in the southern regions of the country.
- Strategic Cooperation: The partnership has enabled the two countries to strengthen their strategic cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade and industry.
- Regional Influence: The partnership has enhanced Morocco's regional influence, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East.
Conclusion
The Morocco-China partnership is a significant development in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative, with the two countries seeking to strengthen their economic and strategic cooperation. The partnership has the potential to drive economic growth and development in Morocco, particularly in the southern regions of the country.
