INTERVIEW Moroccan FM emphasizes robust partnership between Korea, African nations

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita elaborated on the aspirations and strategic goals of his country prior to the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit slated for Tuesday and Wednesday.

In a written interview with The Korea Times, Bourita, who arrived in Seoul on Saturday to prepare for the summit, also underscored Rabat's dedication to cultivating a strong and vibrant alliance with Seoul for mutual prosperity.

"The Kingdom of Morocco shares the main objective of the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, affirming the necessity to move toward a new era of co-prosperity," he said.

The minister noted that the summit is closely aligned with Morocco’s priorities and the visionary agenda of King Mohammed VI. This agenda aims to foster a positive developmental trajectory for Africa, helping African nations unlock their full potential while addressing pressing challenges.

"The summit offers an opportunity for all of us to reflect on ways and means to build on the spirit of trust and mutual respect," Bourita said.

He emphasized Morocco’s intent to maximize the benefits of the Korea-Africa partnership through enhanced triangular cooperation, particularly with greater involvement from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

"By encouraging innovation and co-creation, we aim to achieve shared and mutual benefits," he said.

During his stay in Seoul, the Moroccan minister met his Korean counterpart, Cho Tae-yul, Sunday. Bourita described this meeting as an opportunity to reinforce the dynamic relationship between Korea and Morocco.

"This will be an opportunity to keep growing the dynamic relationship between our two countries, to further consolidate relations, in line with the ambitions of our bilateral relations as well as embed triangular cooperation Morocco-Korea-Africa for the benefit of the African continent," he said.

One of the key highlights of this diplomatic engagement was the signing of three significant agreements.

"We have signed three agreements in the fields of climate change, social security development and implementation of the Korean Cooperation Fund for Development," Bourita said, noting that they are expected to pave the way for deeper and more structured cooperation in these critical areas.

Reflecting on Korea's role in fostering partnerships with African nations, Bourita said Korea has always proven to be a credible and reliable partner.

"A profound transformation process is underway in Africa, and Korea is positioning itself as an innovative partner that prioritizes shared prosperity," he said.

The minister also addressed the potential for enhancing economic ties and trade relations between Korea and Africa. He pointed out the need for increased Korean foreign direct investment (FDI) in Africa, which currently represents only 1.5 percent of Korea’s total FDI.

"Although Korea’s development aid has been increasing, much needs to be done to unleash the full potential of an Africa-Korea partnership," he said. He highlighted the significant economic growth projected for Africa, with consumer and business spending expected to exceed $6.7 trillion by 2030 and economic output reaching $29 trillion by 2050.

"There is substantial opportunity for Korean and African private sectors to build or expand in Africa," he said.

"Morocco and Korea have enjoyed over 60 years of excellent bilateral relations, with historical and cultural ties that have grown stronger and evolved into a solid partnership."

Bourita expressed optimism for future cooperation, aiming to elevate the bilateral relations to a strategic level that benefits both countries.

"We hope to elevate the status of our bilateral relations to one that is based on strategic value for both our countries," he said. The minister emphasized that the cooperation between Morocco and Korea spans various fields, including economic, political, cultural and academic sectors.

"We aim to continue growing these fields to reflect the changing nature of today's world," he added.

When asked about potential challenges in enhancing Korea-Morocco relations, Bourita was optimistic and forward-looking.

"There are no main challenges that hinder the relations between our two countries," he said. "The focus will be on ensuring continued dialogue and exchange of points of view and continuing to cooperate together politically and economically."