Nasser Bourita: Morocco-Ghana Relations Marked by a “Very Positive” Dynamic
Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, emphasized that Morocco-Ghana relations are experiencing a “very positive” dynamic and have seen significant development since the historic visit of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to Ghana in February 2017.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, following their meeting on Thursday in Rabat, Mr. Bourita stated that the discussion focused on ways to translate the shared will of the two countries’ leaders—King Mohammed VI and Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama—into concrete actions to elevate bilateral ties to a higher level.
Bourita highlighted the need to revive the cooperation mechanisms between Morocco and Ghana, particularly the Joint Commission, which has not convened since 2015. He announced that both sides agreed to convene the Commission soon.
During the meeting, the two ministers also signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations, aimed at strengthening diplomatic coordination and interaction between their countries.
Mr. Bourita noted the importance of revitalizing bilateral economic relations, which currently fall short of the potential of both economies. He and his Ghanaian counterpart agreed to organize a Morocco-Ghana Economic Forum and to give special attention to cooperation in the fertilizer sector and food security.
Concerning facilitating travel for citizens of both nations, Bourita announced the creation of a “travel authorization” mechanism, with the goal of negotiating and signing a final visa exemption agreement. This initial measure is expected to come into effect in the coming days.
The Moroccan minister also highlighted Ghana’s central role as a pillar of stability in the Sahel region, and the shared vision of His Majesty the King and President Mahama regarding the importance of reinforcing regional stability through a development-centered approach.
Acknowledging Ghana’s key role within the African Union, Mr. Bourita stressed the importance of coordinating within African regional organizations and praised Ghana’s participation in major royal initiatives, including the Rabat Process of Atlantic African States and the Africa-Atlantic Gas Pipeline project.
Bourita welcomed the positive shift in Ghana’s stance on Morocco’s territorial integrity, as confirmed in the joint communiqué issued after the meeting.
He concluded by praising the significance of the Ghanaian Foreign Minister’s visit, expressing hope that further visits will broaden the scope of cooperation and partnership between Morocco and Ghana.
Editorial team/le7tv
