Moroccan, Spanish FMs meet to bolster strategic alliance

MADRID – Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita met Monday with his Spanish counterpart, José Manuel Albares for high-level talks in the Spanish capital focused on consolidating and expanding the strategic cooperation that has come to define the "new era" in relations between the two neighboring kingdoms.

In a clear signal of the ever-strengthening ties between Rabat and Madrid, the meeting is the latest in a series of consistent, high-level engagements that underscore the unprecedented momentum in the bilateral relationship. 

Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the roadmap established in the joint declaration of April 2022, a landmark agreement that has since served as the cornerstone for a revitalized partnership built on mutual trust, transparency, and respect.

This renewed era of collaboration is firmly rooted in Spain's pivotal policy shift in 2022, when Madrid officially endorsed Morocco's Autonomy Plan as the "most serious, realistic, and credible basis" for resolving the Western Sahara issue. That decision effectively reset the relationship, moving past previous diplomatic tensions and opening the door to a deeper, more structured alliance.

Monday's discussions reportedly covered a wide spectrum of mutual interests, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the partnership. 

Key areas included enhancing joint efforts to combat terrorism, organized crime, and illegal migration networks, a domain where cooperation has already yielded significant and praised results.

Both ministers explored avenues to boost the already substantial trade volume and encourage further Spanish investment in Morocco's key sectors, such as renewable energy, automotive, and infrastructure.

A powerful and visible symbol of this deepening bond is the successful joint bid by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. This historic collaboration is frequently cited by officials on both sides as a testament to their ability to work together on major international projects, showcasing a shared vision for the future.

The meeting in Madrid is more than a diplomatic formality; it is a working session solidifying a strategic choice made by both nations. 

The Morocco-Spain relationship is increasingly viewed as a model of cross-continental partnership, demonstrating how shared challenges can be transformed into opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity.