The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and the high Representative of the European Union, Josep Borrell, set the tone, reaffirming in a joint declaration the EU’s commitment to further conservation and strengthening close relations with Morocco in all areas, in accordance with the principle “pacta sunt servanda”.
This joint declaration, a rare political act which highlights the importance of Morocco and materializes the importance of the EU’s partnership with the Kingdom, reiterates the “great value” that the EU attaches to “its strategic partnership with Morocco, which is long-standing, vast and deep.”
Several EU countries followed suit, emphasizing the strategic nature of the Morocco-EU partnership.
Mr. Albares highlighted the importance of the strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco for both parties, as well as the “benefits” it has brought to the fishing and agricultural sectors. He subsequently affirmed that the Spanish government will continue to “work with the EU and Morocco to preserve and continue to develop this privileged relationship.”
For its part, France reaffirmed its unwavering attachment to its extraordinary partnership with Morocco and its determination to continue to deepen it.
In a press release, the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs stressed that the relationship between the EU and Morocco is therefore of a strategic nature, affirming that Paris will continue to work with its European partners to strengthen their exchanges, especially economic, and the preservation of the achievements of the partnership, in compliance with international law.
As the President of the French Republic,Mr. Emmanuel Macron, wrote to His Majesty King Mohammed VI on the occasion of the Throne Day, France remains determined to support Morocco’s efforts in favor of economic advancement and social security of the Sahara, for the benefit of local populations, specified the Quai d’Orsay.
For its part, Hungary, which holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU, reiterated its constant position in favor of strengthening the strategic partnership between the EU and the Kingdom of Morocco which is “in our common interest”.
“We will continue to work to serve these interests by strengthening ties and expanding cooperation with Morocco to new areas,” the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and trade said in a statement, adding that Budapest is studying in detail the judgment of the CJEU concerning the EU-Morocco fishing and agricultural agreements.
Belgium also reiterated its attachment to the strategic partnership between the European Union and Morocco and its commitment to continue working to deepen it, expressing its support for the joint declaration by the President of the European Commission and the High representative of the European Union for this purpose.
“Belgium reiterates its attachment to the friendship and strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco and will continue to work to deepen it,” affirmed the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation on its X account.
On the same wavelength, Italy highlighted the “essential” strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco. “The strategic partnership is fundamental between the EU and Morocco, including in the field of agriculture and fishing,” affirmed the Vice-President of the Council of Ministers, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, on his X account.
“The European Court should take this into account,” underlined the head of Italian diplomacy. “The Italian government, as I will repeat during my visit to Rabat, wants to further strengthen cooperation with Morocco, particularly in the fight against illegal immigration,” he added.
The Netherlands, in turn, reiterated their “firm commitment to the strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco”, stressing that the Netherlands supports the joint declaration of the President of the European Commission and the High Representative of the european Union on the judgments of the CJEU.
In the same vein, Finland reaffirmed its “strong commitment” to the strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco.
Expressing Finland’s support for the joint statement by the President of the European Commission and the High Representative of the EU on the CJEU decision, the Finnish Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated, on its X account, “strong commitment” of the Nordic country to the “strategic partnership between the EU and Morocco”.
How might the joint declaration impact Morocco’s geopolitical standing in the Mediterranean?
Interview between Time.news Editor and EU Relations Expert
Time.news Editor (T.E.): Welcome! Today we’re diving into the recent joint declaration made by ursula von der Leyen and Josep Borrell regarding the European Union’s relationship with Morocco. To help us unpack this important strategic partnership, we have Dr. Elena Rodriguez, an expert in EU-Mediterranean relations. Welcome, Dr. rodriguez!
Dr. Elena Rodriguez (E.R.): Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this significant advancement.
T.E.: To start, can you explain why this joint declaration is considered a rare political act within the EU framework?
E.R.: Absolutely. Joint declarations like this one are not very common,notably those that emphasize a deep-rooted partnership with a non-EU country. This signifies the EU’s acknowledgment of Morocco’s strategic importance—not just regionally, but also globally, especially in areas like security, trade, and climate change.
T.E.: The phrase “pacta sunt servanda” was mentioned in the declaration. Can you elaborate on it’s importance in this context?
E.R.: “Pacta sunt servanda” translates to “agreements must be kept.” This principle underscores the seriousness with which the EU treats its commitments. By invoking this phrase,the leaders are reinforcing the idea that they are not just paying lip service to their alliance with Morocco; they are pledging to maintain and strengthen their cooperative ties moving forward.
T.E.: What does this partnership mean for Morocco, and what specific sectors are expected to benefit the most?
E.R.: The partnership is incredibly beneficial for Morocco,particularly in sectors like fishing and agriculture,which are vital to its economy. the EU is one of Morocco’s largest trading partners, and favorable trade agreements support advancements in these industries. Moreover, Morocco stands to gain support in technology and lasting practices as the EU shifts focus towards sustainability.
T.E.: We also saw a rallying from several EU countries in support of this partnership.What does this say about Morocco’s role within the European Union’s broader geopolitical strategy?
E.R.: This collective support suggests that Morocco has become a key ally in the EU’s strategy for stability in the Mediterranean region. Countries like Spain and France recognize the mutual benefits and the necessity of a stable Morocco for regional security, migration management, and economic collaboration. It is a nod to the importance of interdependence in today’s globalized world.
T.E.: With the emphasis on strengthening these relationships, how do you think this will impact EU foreign policy moving forward?
E.R.: This could lead to a more proactive EU foreign policy concerning its southern neighbors. By deepening its ties with Morocco, the EU might increase its influence and promote stability in North Africa. This approach could be extended to othre strategic partnerships with countries in the region, aiming for a comprehensive Mediterranean strategy that encompasses trade, security, and migration.
T.E.: as we look ahead, what challenges do you foresee in maintaining this relationship?
E.R.: There are certainly challenges, such as differing political agendas and social unrest in the region. Issues like immigration, human rights, and economic cooperation could test the partnership. It’s crucial for both parties to engage in transparent dialog and address these concerns to ensure that this partnership remains fruitful and resilient.
T.E.: Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for sharing your insights on this important topic. It’s clear that the Morocco-EU partnership will play a significant role in shaping the future of the region.
E.R.: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these developments with you.
T.E.: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed on developments like these by following Time.news!