UK, Morocco diversify partnership on back of stronger political ties
Morocco and the UK have agreed to strengthen cooperation in various development areas at the end of their strategic dialogue, which wrapped up with the support of the UK for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara.
In a joint statement issued after the dialogue, attended by foreign secretary David Lammy, the two countries signed a partnership agreement to cooperate on critical infrastructure projects ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
They also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen bilateral cooperation on water and ports infrastructure, promoting UK expertise in sustainable water management, smart logistics, and green port technologies.
An agreement to advance sustainable infrastructure and partnerships between the UK and Moroccan local authorities across several priority sectors, including water management, sustainable waste management, and urban mobility has also been signed.
Noting the ongoing strength of the UK Morocco Association Agreement, driving record bilateral trade volumes, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the UK Department of Business and Trade and Morocco’s Ministry of Industry and Trade to promote procurement co-operation.
They also signed a Memorandum of Understanding between the UK and Morocco covering higher education, scientific research, and innovation and another enabling the UK private sector’s engagement to support Morocco’s healthcare transformation program.
UK Export Finance signed a MoU with SGTM to explore opportunities of partnership in Morocco and wider Africa, while UK Export Finance, and TAQA Morocco have signed a MoU to support TAQA Morocco’s transition to a low-carbon power generation portfolio in line with Morocco’s sustainable roadmap.
Another MoU on climate collaboration and related environmental services was signed between the UK Met Office and Morocco Meteorological Office.
The following agreements will be agreed and signed in the coming days said the joint statement. The first is a Memorandum of Understanding between UK defence and security trade association ADS Group and the Moroccan Agency of Investment and Export Development to strengthen links between UK and Morocco defense industries.
The second MoU between BAE Systems and the National Defense Administration of Morocco and the Moroccan Agency of Investment and Export Development will focus on investment and capability across the defense sector.