Morocco and Senegal strengthen their strategic cooperation during the 15th High Joint Commission
- Diplomatic context after the Africa Cup of Nations
- Historical relationship and legal framework since 1960
- Sectoral meetings and commemorative agenda
- Bilateral trade: exports and imports
- Agreements and South-South cooperation
- Key sectors and macroeconomic environment
The Senegalese head of government, Ousmane Sonko, was welcomed at the airport by his Moroccan counterpart, Aziz Akhannouch, and Nasser Bourita, Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, according to the APS news agency. The plane carrying the Senegalese delegation landed at Rabat airport in the morning, and Akhannouch's personal welcome demonstrates the importance Rabat attaches to this bilateral visit.
The Senegalese delegation includes several members of the Government, including Cheikh Niang, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Senegalese Abroad; Daouda Ngom, Minister of Higher Education, Research and Innovation; Serigne Guèye Diop, Minister of Industry and Trade; Abdourahmane Sarr, Minister of Economy, Planning and Cooperation; and Mabouba Diagne, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Sovereignty.
"In order to raise joint cooperation between Morocco and Senegal to a multidimensional level, in accordance with the aspirations of the leaders of both countries, I met today in Rabat with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, who is on a working visit to Rabat as part of the work of the 15th session of the High Joint Commission for the Moroccan-Senegalese Partnership," said the Moroccan Prime Minister after receiving Sonko in the country's capital.
Diplomatic context after the Africa Cup of Nations
Apart from the political and economic aspects, this meeting has extra symbolic and diplomatic value because it helps to calm the situation between Moroccans and Senegalese after the incidents at the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAF).
Diplomatic sources from both countries pointed out that Sonko's visit demonstrates that there is calm between the institutions. This relationship, which is based on mutual respect, aims to make it clear that the spirit of collaboration between Moroccans and Senegalese transcends sport and politics.
Historical relationship and legal framework since 1960
To understand the relations between the two countries, we must go back to 1960, the year in which the ties that continue to unite Moroccans and Senegalese today were formally established. These relations have been particularly strengthened by the various visits of the King of Morocco to Dakar and his aligned vision for the development of the continent and its Atlantic region.
The bilateral legal framework already has more than 130 agreements, and there are around 30 more that are being considered. These agreements cover cooperation in political, economic, financial and cultural areas, showing that the relationship is quite broad.
Sectoral meetings and commemorative agenda
During his stay, the Senegalese Prime Minister held meetings with his Moroccan counterparts in all sectors, notably finance, higher education, health, defence and security, as well as agriculture, energy, mining, maritime fisheries, hydraulics, housing and justice.
The official programme included a visit to the tomb of Mohammed V as a commemorative gesture, serving to recall the historic ties based on mutual respect and solidarity that have always been a constant.
This official visit also seeks to strengthen the historic ties and strategic cooperation between Dakar and Rabat, as there is a long-standing relationship that is of interest to both parties.
Bilateral trade: exports and imports
According to the dossier published by the Government of Senegal, Senegal's exports to Morocco saw a 26.2% increase, representing $44.5 million.
This growth is largely attributed to fishery products such as fresh fish and canned tuna and sardines, as well as agri-food products, including peanut butter, coconut, cashew nuts and other agricultural products.
On the other hand, Moroccan imports to Senegal reached $264.6 million, including consumer goods and manufactured goods such as pasta, couscous and citrus fruits. This activity shows growing potential for bilateral economic integration, with a particular focus on investment, the food industry and energy.
Agreements and South-South cooperation
Sonko's visit, together with his high-ranking ministerial delegation, was strengthened by the issuance of a joint statement and the signing of agreements and memoranda of understanding. The two sides confirmed their desire to enhance cooperation on several fronts with the aim of promoting South-South collaboration, focused on mutual development and the exchange of experiences.
The importance of the Senegalese communities in Morocco and vice versa was also mentioned as a special bond between the two countries.
Key sectors and macroeconomic environment
Key sectors such as higher education, transport, energy, health, defence, agriculture, mining and maritime fisheries have received constant support through projects, investments and our technical collaboration.
The strengthening of these relations comes at a time when macroeconomic stability and the diversification of the Moroccan economy, which encompasses agriculture, manufacturing, services, energy and tourism, are key.