Lyon (GNP): Morocco’s role in trade between Europe and Africa dominated a conference held on Tuesday in Lyon. Diplomacy, infrastructure and academic cooperation fueled discussions on the prospects for the Franco-Moroccan partnership.
How can cooperation between Rabat and Paris be expanded by leveraging the Kingdom’s position in Africa? This question was addressed at a meeting organized by the Moroccan Center for Research on Globalization (NejMaroc), in partnership with the Consulate General of Morocco in Lyon.
Held under the theme “France-Morocco: A Strategic Partnership between Diplomacy and Expertise,” the conference examined the economic, institutional and scientific levers that could bring the two countries closer together. Organized to coincide with the celebrations of the Green March and Unity Day, it brought together elected officials, government representatives, academics and members of civil society organizations.
Rajae Benchaji, Consul General of Morocco in Lyon, said that the transformations undertaken under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI reflect a long-term development strategy. She specifically mentioned the Royal Initiative aimed at facilitating Sahel countries’ access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Morocco-Nigeria gas pipeline project, two examples of the Kingdom’s ambition for continental cooperation.
Infrastructure also featured prominently in her speech. Tanger Med, high-speed rail lines, the Tiznit-Laâyoune-Dakhla expressway, and the Nador West Med and Dakhla Atlantic projects were presented as pillars of the country’s economic integration.
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On the bilateral front, the diplomat highlighted the strengthening of partnerships in transport, education, culture, defense, civil aviation and water management.
Yassine El Yattioui, Secretary General of NejMaroc, emphasized the Kingdom’s attractiveness, its economic modernization and its openness to international investment. He advocated expanding Franco-Moroccan exchanges, particularly in the scientific and educational fields.
The discussions finally turned to university cooperation and the contribution of younger generations to strengthening ties between the two countries.
The meeting inaugurates a series of conferences bringing together institutions, researchers and local elected officials, including representatives from Oyonnax, Vaulx-en-Velin and Vénissieux.
Managing Editor at Global News Pakistan (GNP), with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Riphah International University, graduated with a Gold Medal. Reach out at sabahtareengnp@gmail.com
