Benin Seeks Stronger Parliamentary Ties with Morocco – Top Senator

In a meeting held on Tuesday in Rabat, Benin’s National Assembly President Gbèhounou Louis Vlavonou laid out his country’s desire to strengthen parliamentary ties with Morocco. During these discussions with Mohamed Ould Errachid, Moroccan Speaker for the House of Councillors (upper house), the Beninese top senator emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation and solidifying coordination between the parliaments of both countries, by encouraging the exchange of visits and expertise, as noted in a statement from the House of Councillors. Vlavonou also highlighted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in reinforcing bilateral relations, fostering dialogue between the representatives of the two nations, and aligning perspectives on bilateral and multilateral issues. He further praised the depth of ties between Morocco and Benin, rooted in friendship, solidarity, and cooperation, stressing Benin’s commitment to strengthening these relations and expanding them to encompass all vital areas for the two friendly countries. The President of Benin’s National Assembly also acknowledged the human dimension in the relationship between the two countries, expressing gratitude for Morocco’s support to Benin through knowledge sharing across various fields. In this context, Vlavonou highlighted the training of Beninese students and professionals in Morocco, which strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and friendship between the Moroccan and Beninese people and promotes cultural and human exchanges. Regarding the issue of the Moroccan Sahara, the President of Benin’s National Assembly reiterated his country’s support for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom, applauding Morocco’s dynamic development and growth under the enlightened leadership of HM King Mohammed VI. He noted that Morocco has become a model to follow and an essential partner in promoting security, stability, and development at regional and international levels. For his part, Ould Errachid reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Councillors to work toward strengthening bilateral parliamentary cooperation and boosting relations between their legislative institutions. He also underscored the importance of promoting visit exchanges, sharing expertise in parliamentary activities, as well as fostering mutual support, coordination, and consultation within regional and international parliamentary bodies on issues of common interest. Ould Errachid further specified that the visit of the Beninese parliamentary delegation reflects the distinguished relations between Morocco and Benin, based on deep friendship, solidarity, and mutual respect, under the leadership of HM King Mohammed VI and H.E. President Patrice Talon. Ould Errachid also highlighted promising opportunities for cooperation between the two countries, commending joint efforts to strengthen economic relations and elevate them to the level of their distinguished political ties. At the continental level, Ould Errachid praised the constant efforts of both countries in favor of peace and development in Africa. He emphasized that African cooperation holds an important place in Morocco’s foreign policy, in accordance with the Royal Directives, within a vision based on the principles of solidarity, South-South cooperation, and a win-win partnership. He added that the Royal Initiative for the Atlantic and the Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline project are part of efforts to develop the continent by promoting regional integration and enhancing cooperation across various sectors. Furthermore, the upper house speaker commended Benin’s firm and steadfast support for the Moroccanness of the Sahara and for the autonomy plan as the only viable solution to resolve this artificial regional conflict.