These discussions, held within the framework of the 15th Morocco–Senegal Joint Commission for Cooperation, allowed both parties to agree on a new roadmap covering several areas of partnership, including standardization, industrial zones, and capacity building.
In a statement to the press, Mr Gueye Diop highlighted the long-standing historical ties between Senegal and Morocco, noting that the discussions focused on the main axes of industrial cooperation, in a context marked by Senegal’s entry into a new era linked to the development of the oil and gas sectors, as well as the deployment of agro-industrial zones and special economic zones.
He expressed his country’s desire to benefit from Moroccan experience, particularly regarding industrial infrastructure, business support, upgrading, training, and supervision, specifying that agreements are planned in these areas. Strengthening cooperation in the field of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is also on the agenda, he added, recalling that SMEs account for 97% of Senegal’s economic fabric. To this end, agreements are envisaged between the agencies responsible for SMEs in both countries, as well as between upgrading structures.
The talks also covered fiscal policies applied to industrial zones and investments, as well as the development of bilateral trade, with a particular focus on processed and industrialized products. Gueye Diop also mentioned Senegal’s interest in Moroccan experience in the phosphate sector, announcing planned site visits, including to the OCP Group, to draw inspiration from the Moroccan model for the valorization of this resource.
He finally expressed the satisfaction of the Senegalese delegation regarding the prospects for cooperation, announcing that invitations will soon be sent to Moroccan officials to continue discussions and implement the agreements reached.
For his part, Mr Mezzour emphasized that this dynamic falls within the framework of implementing the High Royal Directives, recalling the importance of the Atlantic vision promoted by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to strengthen cooperation and integration among African countries. He also highlighted the shared desire of the two countries to promote training, skills development, and industrial integration, in a logic of complementarity and South–South cooperation, consistent with the major structuring projects on the African continent.
The convening of the 15th Morocco–Senegal Joint Commission provides an opportunity to reinforce sectoral cooperation between the two countries through the implementation of structuring projects in sectors including agriculture, energy, trade, digital economy, and others.
Editorial team/le7tv