During an exclusive interview with CGTN, Abdelkader El Ansari, Moroccan Ambassador to China, highlighted the strategic aspects of Sino-Moroccan relations. Aspects that he included in the context of the 25th anniversary of FOCAC which constitutes, according to him, an essential lever for consolidating bilateral ties and promoting joint projects.
The Ambassador described the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) as a fundamental platform in relations between China and African countries, celebrated at a summit last September in Beijing. This framework not only makes it possible to assess the progress made in Sino-African relations, but also to chart a strategic roadmap for the years to come.
“This is a very important framework for cooperation between China and African countries. It helps assess relations between the two parties and chart a roadmap for future cooperation,” he said.
Morocco, as an active member of the African family, plays a leading role in this forum. The ambassador highlighted the Kingdom’s contribution to the development of triangular cooperation programs, which directly benefit African partners. “We are also involved in the development of triangular cooperation programs for the benefit of our African partners,” he added, underlining Morocco’s constant commitment to supportive and inclusive cooperation.
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Promising prospects
Abdelkader El Ansari discussed shared ambitions for 2025 and beyond, highlighting the optimism surrounding the evolution of bilateral relations. The continuous political and diplomatic dialogue between the two countries has made it possible to achieve a convergence of views on fundamental issues and to intensify economic exchanges.
“We view our relationships with great ambition and enthusiasm. There is an ongoing political and diplomatic dialogue between the two countries. We see a very great convergence of views on all the fundamental and existential questions which concern our country,” he said.
Concrete initiatives are strengthening this cooperation, notably the imminent opening of two new direct airlines linking Casablanca to Beijing and Shanghai. These connections will facilitate human and economic exchanges, contributing to the deepening of bilateral relations. “These initiatives, as well as the numerous high-level visits planned, reflect our desire to elevate our bilateral relations to the level desired by His Majesty King Mohammed VI and His Excellency President Xi Jinping,” added the Ambassador.
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Chinese investments: Morocco, a destination of choice
The Ambassador then detailed Morocco’s attractiveness for Chinese investors, emphasizing that China is the Kingdom’s third global trading partner and its first economic partner in Asia since 2016. This dynamic is based on solid factors, such as stability. politics, the strategic geographical position of Morocco and its numerous free trade agreements.
-These agreements allow products manufactured in Morocco, with an added value of 40 to 60%, to access several international markets with preferential conditions. “For the moment, dozens of Chinese companies are established in Morocco. But many others are showing interest in various sectors, such as automobiles, renewable energies, textiles and infrastructure,” said the Ambassador.
He also discussed the opportunities offered by Moroccan calls for tenders for large-scale projects in the field of infrastructure and industry. These initiatives strengthen the attractiveness of Morocco, positioning it as an essential platform for foreign investors, particularly Chinese.
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Strengthening South-South cooperation: a shared imperative
Another central aspect addressed by Abdelkader El Ansari is the role of Morocco and China within the framework of the “Global South”. This concept, bringing together developing countries, illustrates increased solidarity to benefit from global economic growth and promote equitable multilateralism.
“Morocco and China share converging visions, aspiring to a fairer, more united world where security reigns,” he declared, emphasizing the cooperation of the two nations within international organizations to promote initiatives common, particularly in favor of the development of Africa.
Morocco, by its geographical position and its foreign policy, is a bridge between Africa and international partners, in particular China. “Morocco plays a role as a strategic bridge for access to Africa, particularly in the West and Central regions,” he added.
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A promising future for the Sino-Moroccan partnership
Reiterating the commitment of the two countries to continue and strengthen their strategic partnership, Mr. El Ansari highlighted the common foundations of a lasting and fruitful relationship. “Morocco and China maintain excellent relations based on mutual respect, solidarity, trust and credibility,” concludes the Moroccan Ambassador to China.
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