Morocco, Saudi Arabia Commit To Boost Cooperation, Bilateral Ties

Rabat - Morocco and Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed their determination to continue to bolster their cooperation in all fields, particularly trade.

The two countries echoed their determination during the 13th session of the Moroccan-Saudi Joint Commission, which opened today in Rabat.

Morocco’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita and Saudi Diplomat Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdellah Al Saud are co-chairing the high-level symposium, marking the presence of high-level officials from both countries.

“We, in the Kingdom of Morocco, we are proud of the level of cooperation with Saudi Arabia,” Minister Bourita said in his opening speech.

The Moroccan FM highlighted Saudi Arabia’s unwavering support for Morocco’s high interests, including territorial integrity and sovereignty over its southern provinces.

Bourita recalled that the holding of the 13th session of the Saudi-Morocco mixed committee came after nearly nine years of absence. The mixed cooperation meeting reflects the two countries’ desire to reactivate this “key cooperation mechanism .”

The Moroccan FM also reaffirmed Morocco’s determination to boost diplomatic ties between the two countries, calling on Saudi authorities to support Moroccan reforms and development programs.

For his part, Prince Faisal Al Saud expressed his deep thanks and gratitude for the warm reception and hospitality he and his delegation received in Morocco, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the two countries.

Saudi Arabia also commended Morocco’s efforts to defend the Palestinian cause.

“The continuous efforts made by HM King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds, aimed at defending the city of Al-Quds Al-Sharif and its inhabitants, preserving its civilizational identity and protecting its status as a symbol of tolerance and coexistence between different monotheistic religions,” the Gulf country’s representatives in the meeting said.

In 2021, the overall value of trade between the two countries reached $1.76 billion.  Some 250 Saudi-owned companies are based in Morocco, while fewer than 20 Moroccan companies are present in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi direct investments in the North African country stood at $26.6 million in 2020. The investments span several industries, including real estate, tourism, and agriculture.

Source: Morocco World News