EU and Member States Reaffirm Morocco Strategic Partnership \ Newslooks \ Washington \ The EU and its member states remain committed to their strategic partnership with Morocco, despite recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) rulings on agricultural and fishing agreements. High-level EU officials, including Ursula von der Leyen and Josep Borrell, emphasize the long-standing, multifaceted cooperation between the two. Multiple EU nations, such as Spain, France, and Italy, voiced their support for further strengthening this partnership.
Deep Look at EU and Member States Morocco Strategic Partnership.
The European Union (EU) and its member states have solidified their stance on maintaining and deepening their strategic partnership with Morocco, despite recent rulings by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) that have affected agricultural and fishing agreements between the two regions. This affirmation of commitment comes at a pivotal time, following the ECJ’s decisions on the legality of agreements related to Sahara products, sparking concerns regarding EU-Morocco relations.
In a rare political move, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU High Representative Josep Borrell released a joint statement underscoring the EU’s dedication to preserving and strengthening its relationship with Morocco. This relationship, described as “long-standing, wide-ranging, and deep,” remains a crucial aspect of the EU’s foreign policy, particularly in North Africa. The officials highlighted that this partnership goes beyond trade, spanning into political, social, and economic realms. They reaffirmed that the principle of pacta sunt servanda—agreements must be kept—guides the EU’s actions in relation to Morocco, indicating a strong legal and ethical commitment to existing treaties.
The joint statement emphasized the “profound friendship and multi-faceted cooperation” between the EU and Morocco, marking an intent to take this relationship to new heights in the coming months. This aligns with the growing importance of Morocco as a strategic ally, particularly in areas such as migration control, regional stability, and counter-terrorism efforts.
Several EU member states have echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of the partnership in their own statements. In Spain, Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares highlighted the benefits derived from the agricultural and fishing agreements, particularly for Spain’s economy. He noted the importance of continuing to work with both Morocco and the EU to preserve and further develop this “privileged relationship.” Spain’s position is particularly noteworthy given its proximity to Morocco and its vested interest in maintaining stability and cooperation across the Strait of Gibraltar.
Similarly, France, under the leadership of President Emmanuel Macron, has reaffirmed its “exceptional partnership” with Morocco. In a recent statement, the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs expressed its commitment to deepening this strategic relationship, especially in the economic and social development of the Sahara region, a subject of significant geopolitical interest. France’s support for Morocco’s initiatives in the region remains a cornerstone of their bilateral relations.
Hungary, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the EU Council, also expressed its firm support for strengthening ties with Morocco. Hungarian officials stressed that it is in both the EU’s and Morocco’s interests to deepen cooperation in various fields, particularly in agriculture, fishing, and migration.
Belgium also reiterated its unwavering commitment to the EU-Morocco partnership, highlighting its intention to continue working towards deepening this relationship. In a social media statement, the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed the strategic importance of maintaining close ties with Morocco, particularly in the wake of the ECJ’s rulings. This sentiment was echoed by the Netherlands and Finland, both of which expressed their support for the joint EU declaration on Morocco.
Italy has similarly recognized the value of its partnership with Morocco, particularly in managing agricultural trade and combating illegal immigration. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the need for the European Court of Justice to consider the broader strategic context when making decisions that affect the EU-Morocco relationship. Tajani also hinted at plans to visit Rabat, where discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation are expected to focus on mutual challenges like migration and regional security.
In light of these developments, the EU remains focused on maintaining the momentum of its partnership with Morocco, while carefully navigating the legal challenges posed by the ECJ rulings. The future of this relationship appears to be one of further expansion, with both sides working to deepen cooperation in established areas and explore new avenues for collaboration.
