On November 25, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with Moroccan Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan in Casablanca, reaffirming China’s commitment to strengthen ties with Morocco. Emphasizing support for national security and stability, both leaders discussed cultural and economic cooperation, notably in electric vehicle production. Recent investments and projects exemplify the collaborative spirit between China and Morocco, enhancing their strategic partnership.
On November 25, 2024, during a brief stopover in Casablanca following his international engagements, President Xi Jinping of China reaffirmed his country’s dedication to enhancing bilateral relations with Morocco. He emphasized China’s support for Morocco’s national security and stability, expressing a desire for mutual collaboration on core national issues. This meeting with Moroccan Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, which took place at Mohammed V International Airport, was marked by cordial exchanges that underscored the growing partnership between the two nations.
President Xi reflected on the positive trajectory of China-Morocco relations, highlighting the fruitful cooperation seen in various domains and recalling King Mohammed VI’s significant visit to China in 2016. He articulated China’s readiness to work with Morocco on the initiatives stemming from the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the Belt and Road Initiative. Xi urged for enhanced cultural exchanges to further strengthen the friendship between their peoples.
In response, Crown Prince Hassan conveyed King Mohammed VI’s warm regards and noted the ongoing momentum in Morocco-China relations. He expressed appreciation for China’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic, which left a lasting impact on Moroccan society. The crown prince reiterated Morocco’s commitment to advancing ties with China through sustained high-level exchanges and diversified cooperation.
The meeting also highlighted Morocco’s openness to Chinese culture, with an emphasis on bolstering cultural connections. Both leaders acknowledged that their nations share similar perspectives on crucial geopolitical issues and reiterated their commitment to supporting each other’s sovereignty and security.
Recently, China has intensified its investments in various Moroccan sectors, particularly infrastructure and electric vehicles. A noteworthy development is the agreement signed by Chinese EV battery manufacturer Gotion High-Tech and Morocco’s state-owned investment fund, which aims to establish a significant electric battery gigafactory in Kenitra, generating thousands of jobs and boosting the local economy. President Xi is expected to return to Beijing after concluding his diplomatic tour that included stops in Latin America.
The relationship between China and Morocco has gained traction in recent years, bolstered by mutual interests in economic cooperation and cultural exchange. China’s investment in Morocco’s infrastructure and renewable energy sectors, particularly in electric vehicles and battery production, illustrates a strategic partnership beneficial to both parties. The geopolitical significance of Morocco as a gateway to Africa further enhances its collaboration with China, especially within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. Furthermore, historical ties dating back to King Mohammed VI’s visit in 2016 lay the foundation for continued diplomatic engagement and friendship.
In conclusion, the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan represents a significant step in deepening China-Morocco relations. The two nations are poised to expand their cooperation in various fields, including economic investment and cultural exchange. As both leaders emphasized, mutual support on national interests promises to enhance not only their bilateral ties but also contributes to stability and prosperity in their respective regions.
Original Source: asianews.network
