Kazakhstan and Morocco: First Steps Towards Strategic Partnership
Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu’s first official visit to Morocco marks a significant development in bilateral relations. Key discussions focused on enhancing political dialogue, expanding trade, and strengthening cultural ties. The countries reported a significant increase in trade, announced the establishment of a visa-free regime, and expressed intentions to collaborate in various sectors, signaling a commitment to a strategic partnership going forward.
Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu recently embarked on the first official visit to Morocco, reflecting the historic significance of bilateral relations. The visit, initiated by Nasser Bourita, Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, served as a platform for discussions on enhancing political dialogues, trade, investment, and cultural and humanitarian exchanges between the two nations.
During their talks, both parties acknowledged the substantial potential for collaboration in key sectors such as energy, transportation, agriculture, digital technologies, education, and tourism. They expressed a commitment to improving the legal frameworks to facilitate exchanges at various levels, emphasizing the importance of deepening partnerships.
Kazakhstan regards Morocco as a vital partner in the Middle East and North Africa, with over three decades of diplomatic ties underpinning their collaboration based on shared values and constructive dialogue. Minister Bourita recognized Kazakhstan’s influential role in Central Asia and conveyed Morocco’s dedication to enriching their multifaceted relations.
The countries reported a significant increase in trade turnover, which surged by 70% to reach 274 million US dollars the previous year. Nurtleu highlighted Kazakhstan’s potential to enhance exports of high-value goods, including petrochemical, metallurgical, and food products, affirming a positive outlook for future trade.
Minister Nurtleu announced that a new visa-free regime would soon take effect, making Morocco the first African nation to establish such an agreement with Kazakhstan, thus fostering further business ties and citizen interactions.
Discussions also addressed food security, with Nurtleu acknowledging Morocco’s interest in the Islamic Organization for Food Security. He invited Morocco to ratify its Charter and participate prominently in the upcoming General Assembly in Astana.
The two ministers discussed the imminent Astana International Forum scheduled for May and the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, both of which aim to enhance global cooperation on pressing issues, with hopes for strong Moroccan representation.
On the subject of digitalization, Kazakhstan expressed interest in collaborating with Morocco under the “Digital Morocco 2030” initiative, aimed at bolstering the digital economy through innovative solutions and cybersecurity advancements.
The significance of cultural and humanitarian ties was underscored, particularly following the successful concert by the Astana Academic Philharmonic and the Rabat Grand Orchestra, which captivated Moroccan audiences.
Recognizing substantial tourism growth potential, both nations agreed to finalize an air communication agreement by 2025, exploring direct flight options to facilitate travel.
Concluding discussions, the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations across political, economic, and humanitarian domains, culminating in a Joint Communiqué announcing the formation of working groups to foster cooperation in strategic areas. Notably, during the visit, Minister Nurtleu also paid tribute at the Mausoleum of Sultan Mohammed V, emphasizing mutual respect and cultural appreciation between Kazakhstan and Morocco.
Kazakhstan and Morocco are taking concrete steps towards strengthening their bilateral relations through enhanced political dialogue, trade, and cultural exchanges. Their recent discussions highlighted significant cooperation potential in various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and digital technology. The establishment of a new visa-free regime and forthcoming agreements aim to facilitate deeper connections between the two nations, paving the way for a robust strategic partnership.
Original Source: dknews.kz
