Morocco–EU Partnership on the Verge of a New, More Realistic and Effective Phase

ALDAR/ Iman Alaoui

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad, Nasser Bourita, held a meeting in Rabat with the European Commissioner in charge of the Mediterranean, Dubravka Šuica, as part of preparations for the high-level meeting on the future of Euro-Mediterranean relations.

This meeting was far from a mere protocol exchange; it embodied a shared determination to redefine cooperation priorities between the two sides in line with current challenges and common interests. Both officials stressed that the partnership between Morocco and the European Union is not just a traditional relationship but a fundamental pillar for the stability of both shores of the Mediterranean, particularly on migration, economic development, and regional security.

Dubravka Šuica described Morocco as a reliable partner, emphasizing that the EU sees Rabat as a strategic bridge linking North Africa with Southern Europe. For his part, Bourita called for moving from words to action, stressing that the next stage requires concrete initiatives that reflect the EU’s genuine commitment to the Kingdom.

The talks did not shy away from sensitive issues, foremost among them the question of the Sahara. Morocco reiterates that any cooperation cannot overlook its territorial integrity and national sovereignty, placing the European Union before a real test of translating its positive positions into tangible steps.

Major topics such as energy transition, climate change mitigation, infrastructure development, and digitalization were also raised. Both parties see these areas as holding enormous potential for shared growth, provided they are accompanied by a clear vision and effective implementation mechanisms.

The Rabat meeting thus appeared as a foundational step toward launching a new phase in Euro-Mediterranean relations. The upcoming high-level gathering is expected to deliver concrete projects related to energy, migration, and cultural cooperation, making the Morocco–EU partnership a regional model capable of addressing future challenges.