فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
On Thursday, Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch met with Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang in Beijing during the China-Africa Cooperation Forum (FOCAC) summit.
Morocco’s Representation at the Summit
Aziz Akhannouch represents King Mohammed VI at this summit and was accompanied by several prominent figures, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad, Nasser Bourita; Minister Delegate to the Prime Minister in charge of Investment, Convergence, and Public Policy Evaluation, Mohcine Jazouli; the Ambassador and Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation, Mohamed Methqal; the Moroccan Ambassador in Beijing, Abdelkader El Ansari; and the President of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), Chakib Alj.
Distinguished Relations Between Morocco and China
During the discussions, both parties expressed their pride in the distinguished relations between the two countries across various fields, including politics, economics, social affairs, culture, and education, in line with the high instructions of King Mohammed VI and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The two officials also acknowledged mutual support on fundamental issues in regional and international forums.
King Mohammed VI’s Visit to China
Prime Minister Akhannouch noted that King Mohammed VI’s visit to the People’s Republic of China in May 2016 significantly boosted bilateral relations following the signing of the strategic partnership. He expressed hope for further consolidation and development of this dynamic in the future.
Strengthening Strategic Cooperation
Akhannouch conveyed the Kingdom’s desire to enhance its fruitful and strategic cooperation with China, particularly within the framework of the triangular and multidimensional partnership between Morocco, China, and Africa. In this context, he highlighted the multiple initiatives launched by King Mohammed VI for Africa, reflecting Morocco’s commitment to peace, stability, regional integration, and sustainable development on the continent.
King Mohammed VI’s Initiatives for Africa
Akhannouch specifically mentioned the international initiative to facilitate access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean, aimed at enhancing trade and economic exchanges. He also referred to the Atlantic African States Process (PEAA) and the Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, which seeks to create a strategic energy corridor.
China’s Readiness to Deepen Cooperation
For his part, Ding Xuexiang, accompanied by several Chinese officials, emphasized the “unique” nature of bilateral relations, particularly since the King’s visit to China in 2016. He noted that China is ready to work with Morocco to deepen cooperation in sectors such as infrastructure, trade, investment, culture, education, and tourism.
Honorary Lunch for the Moroccan Delegation
Following the discussions, a lunch was hosted by the Chinese Vice Premier and the Prime Minister, offered by the President of the State Council of China in honor of the Moroccan delegation participating in the FOCAC summit.
Opening of the Summit
The proceedings of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum summit commenced on Thursday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, with the participation of Chinese President Xi Jinping and African heads of state and government, including Morocco.
