In an Exclusive Interview with ALDAR … Chinese Ambassador Li Changlin Leaves Morocco Reassured: Sino-Moroccan Relations Are Stronger Than Ever
ALDAR/ Meryem Hafiani
In an exclusive interview with ALDAR news outlet, the Chinese Ambassador to Morocco, Li Changlin, expressed deep gratitude and satisfaction as his diplomatic mission—lasting over four years—draws to a close. He affirmed that this period has been among the richest of his professional career, thanks to the depth of bilateral relations, the intensity of joint projects, and the growing mutual understanding between the two peoples.
The ambassador, who arrived in Morocco in April 2021 during the peak of the COVID-19 crisis, recalled the early moments of cooperation between Rabat and Beijing, highlighting the close coordination that ensured the safe arrival of Sinopharm vaccines in the Kingdom without any adverse health incidents. He saw this as tangible proof of the strength of the strategic partnership between the two countries. He further noted that cooperation did not stop at vaccine delivery but extended to the construction of a major vaccine production plant in Benslimane, involving Chinese engineers and technicians from Shanghai who assembled the imported components of the factory.
On a related note, the ambassador spoke about the significant transformation of the “Tangier Tech” project following the pandemic. Currently, 34 companies—including Chinese, American, and Taiwanese firms—are building industrial units specializing in electric vehicle components. This, he said, reflects growing confidence in Morocco’s business climate. He also praised the launch of direct flights between Casablanca and both Shanghai and Beijing, predicting that Morocco could attract around 200,000 Chinese tourists in the coming years.
One of the most pivotal moments of his mission, according to Ambassador Li, was the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to Morocco in November 2024. Welcomed by the Crown Prince, the Chinese leader discussed the future of bilateral relations and emphasized the importance of enhancing cultural and human exchange—an encounter that, according to the ambassador, marked a new beginning in Sino-Moroccan cooperation.
Ambassador Li proudly acknowledged the involvement of Chinese companies in Morocco’s infrastructure projects, particularly in the railway sector. Chinese firms contributed to the construction of the high-speed rail line and are now preparing for network expansion toward the south, especially the Marrakech–Agadir line. He added that China is engaged in serious discussions regarding the financing and technical support for future projects, particularly in anticipation of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. Several Chinese companies have already expressed interest in contributing to the development of sports and hospitality infrastructure linked to this global event.
Regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue, the ambassador stressed that China closely follows developments and supports a political solution mutually agreed upon by all parties within the framework of United Nations resolutions. He pointed out that China has voted in favor of UN resolutions on the matter for five consecutive years, noting a growing international momentum in support of Morocco’s position.
On the educational and cultural front, the ambassador revealed that approximately 8,700 Moroccan students are currently pursuing their studies in Chinese universities, particularly in fields such as medicine, pharmacy, and engineering. He addressed these students directly, encouraging them to embrace cultural and social openness, assuring them that while the Chinese language is challenging, it is learnable. He praised the remarkable aptitude of Moroccan students in mastering the language.
Ambassador Li concluded the interview with a heartfelt message to the Moroccan people, stating that he had lived some of the most beautiful moments of his diplomatic career in Morocco, surrounded by the love and generosity of its people. He commended the major transformations the Kingdom has undergone under King Mohammed VI and the positive image Morocco enjoys on the international stage, especially in Africa. He added that he will remain loyal to Morocco and its people, emphasizing that his mission is not over—it will continue from wherever he may be, in service of strengthening Sino-Moroccan ties. He wished Rabat great success in hosting the 2030 World Cup and continued progress and prosperity in the years to come.
