Morocco-Spain, ‘Model of Reference’ in Terms of North-South Cooperation – Moratinos –

Relations between Morocco and Spain are “a model of reference” in terms of North-South cooperation, according to Miguel Angel Moratinos, United Nations High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations. Morocco and Spain have not only given a new dimension to their bilateral relations but are now “leaders and role models” in the conduct of projects and initiatives with a strong regional impact, the former head of Spanish diplomacy told MAP.  Praising HM King Mohammed VI’s “enlightened vision” for Africa’s development, Moratinos noted that Spain and Morocco are influential players in building poles of peace, stability, and security. The two countries are called upon to invest together in forward-looking projects, particularly in Africa, such as the African-Atlantic Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline, he said. Given their geographical position and high international profile, the two kingdoms have a responsibility to consolidate ties between the African and European continents and to act as a link between the South and the North,” Moratinos added. The co-hosting of the 2030 World Cup by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal is an edifying example of North-South cooperation that benefits both continents, he pointed out.  Moratinos also noted that the working visit to Morocco by the President of the Spanish Government, Pedro Sanchez, heralds a new chapter in relations between two partner countries, “friends and neighbors, solidly united by history and geography.” After recalling the historic depth of bilateral relations, he emphasized that the audience granted by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to the head of the Spanish Government was of “great symbolic value,”  insofar as it gave “fresh impetus” to the dynamic cooperation between Rabat and Madrid on all fronts. The Royal audience also reflects a shared desire to establish Spanish-Moroccan ties as “a model of reference in a turbulent world that is seeking to redefine international governance,” he concluded.