Morocco-Belgium Partnership: Strengthening Strategic Ties in Trade, Climate, and Judicial Cooperation
Morocco and Belgium reaffirmed their joint commitment to enhancing their strategic partnership during the 3rd Meeting of the High Joint Commission for Morocco-Belgium Partnership. They expressed their willingness to strengthen cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investments, climate action, energy transition, water management, and infrastructure development. Both countries emphasized the importance of parliamentary cooperation and discussed furthering economic partnerships, particularly in areas like renewable energies and green hydrogen. They welcomed the success of their long-standing development cooperation and expressed their commitment to promoting innovative judicial cooperation aligned with international standards. Additionally, they underscored their mutual interest in strengthening security cooperation and praised progress in migration cooperation. Cultural cooperation was also emphasized, along with the importance of promoting women’s sports, highlighted by Belgium’s joint bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027.
Morocco, Belgium Stand Firm for Libya’s Unity and Regional Stability
Morocco and Belgium recently affirmed their unwavering commitment to Libya’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity in a joint declaration issued during the 3rd meeting of the High Joint Commission for Morocco-Belgium partnership. The declaration, co-chaired by Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, emphasized the pivotal role of the United Nations in facilitating an inclusive political process in Libya. Both nations expressed support for Libya’s presidential and legislative elections and commended Morocco’s efforts in hosting meetings of the Joint Commission to draft electoral laws under UN auspices.
Furthermore, Morocco and Belgium reiterated their joint objective to bolster peace, security, and development in the Euro-African region, particularly in the Sahel. They condemned attacks on civilians and called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, advocating for compliance with UN resolutions and humanitarian access. The two-state solution for Israel and Palestine was underscored as essential for lasting peace in the Middle East, with a commitment to upholding the UN Charter’s principles and condemning violence.
Amid global crises like the war in Ukraine, both nations expressed deep concern and affirmed their commitment to strengthening the historic partnership between Morocco and the European Union. They pledged to preserve stability and continuity in this strategic partnership while promoting sustainable development, peace, and security in the Mediterranean region through collaborative efforts in forums like the Union for the Mediterranean. Additionally, Morocco and Belgium reiterated their dedication to advancing human rights globally, reaffirming their joint presence at the United Nations Human Rights Council and their commitment to organizing events that promote human rights within multilateral forums.
Belgium Acknowledges Morocco’s Autonomy Initiative for Moroccan Sahara Issue
Belgium has endorsed Morocco’s autonomy initiative, proposed in 2007, as a credible foundation for a mutually acceptable solution to the Moroccan Sahara issue, according to a joint declaration adopted during the 3rd meeting of the Moroccan-Belgian High Joint Partnership Commission. Co-chaired by Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, the declaration emphasized Belgium’s longstanding support for the UN-led process aimed at achieving a just and lasting political solution. Both parties reiterated their commitment to the exclusive role of the UN in the political process and expressed support for UN Security Council resolution 2703 (2023), which underlines the parties’ responsibility in seeking a realistic and pragmatic solution through compromise.
Belgium Commends Morocco’s Transformative Reforms under King Mohammed VI’s Leadership
Belgium has lauded Morocco’s extensive reforms under the guidance of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, spanning the past twenty-five years, aimed at fostering a more vibrant and dynamic Moroccan society and economy. The praise came in a joint declaration issued at the conclusion of the 3rd meeting of the Moroccan-Belgian High Joint Partnership Commission in Rabat. Emphasizing the significance of initiatives like the New Development Model and advanced regionalization, Belgium also welcomed Morocco’s ongoing reforms, including those concerning the Family Code (Moudawana). Additionally, Belgium expressed appreciation for His Majesty’s Atlantic Initiative, describing it as an innovative step towards enhancing cooperation with Sahel countries and integrating the African Atlantic region, recognizing the Atlantic’s pivotal role in connecting diverse regions.