UN: African Atlantic States to Meet in Morocco in Q1 of 2023

The African Atlantic countries have decided to hold their next ministerial meeting in Rabat during the first quarter of 2023 to discuss the efforts made to build an African zone of peace, stability and shared prosperity.

The decision was made in New York during a meeting chaired by Moroccan foreign minister Nasser Bourita on the sidelines of the 77th session of the UN General Assembly.

In a statement released following their gathering, the African ministers welcomed the setting up of a Permanent Secretariat of African Atlantic States, based in Rabat, tasked with implementing the inclusive decisions taken by member countries, stressing the importance of consultation and coordination of actions on issues of common interests.

The African Atlantic countries have also been urged to contribute to the work of the thematic groups set up to foster political & security dialogue, promote the blue economy, enhance maritime connectivity and cooperation in energy, sustainable development and environment protection.

The ministers agreed on deploying a progressive and collective partnership aimed at strengthening cooperation and integration through concrete actions and initiatives for shared development, stability and prosperity.

In his opening address, Moroccan FM said this geostrategic alliance has been set up thanks to the vision and commitment of King Mohammed VI to make this African Atlantic grouping a model of inter-African and south-south cooperation.

The 1st ministerial meeting of African Atlantic States was held on June 8 in Rabat with the participation of 21 countries.