Morocco will determine the future of its cooperation with the EU in the field of fisheries based on its own government assessments and in consultation with European partners, stated Nasser Bourita, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad, in Rabat on Wednesday.
“The Morocco-EU Fisheries Agreement is still in effect. However, it is the Fisheries Protocol, concluded for a four-year period (2019-2023), that is set to expire on July 17th,” clarified Minister Bourita during a press conference following the 3rd Ministerial Meeting of the Atlantic African States Process.
The minister highlighted that the expiration of the protocol was scheduled since its conclusion for a four-year duration starting from July 18th, 2019. Bourita described the implementation of the protocol as “satisfactory,” noting that the cooperation had been “positive and mutually beneficial” over these four years. He also mentioned that a meeting is scheduled to take place this week in Brussels between Moroccan authorities and their European counterparts within the framework of a Joint Fisheries Commission to conduct a joint assessment of these four years.
Regarding the future of the Fisheries Agreement, the minister indicated that there is an ongoing “reflection” within the Moroccan government, considering three parameters. The first parameter is of a “doctrinal” nature, as the current vision and foreign policy outlined by His Majesty King Mohammed VI prioritize partnerships “with a clearer added value.” Minister Bourita emphasized that Morocco seeks more advanced partnerships where Moroccan added value is stronger.
Explaining the second parameter, the minister stated that the Kingdom has developed a national fisheries strategy called “Halieutis” and has established a dedicated vision for sector development, which takes into account the expectations of operators and requires adaptations in the interaction with partners.
The third parameter, which the government incorporates into its reflection and evaluation, is related to scientific data, aiming to preserve this significant natural resource for Morocco and Moroccans and ensure its sustainability, he further explained.
“Therefore, Morocco will engage with the European party based on this ongoing reflection,” underlined Minister Bourita, emphasizing that dialogue and cooperation with European partners are ongoing.
