In a new diplomatic move, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita announced the entry into force of the visa exemption agreement between Morocco and Kazakhstan, effective March 19th. This agreement, signed last September during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, raises questions about the relevance of this strategic approach and its implications for Morocco’s interests, especially given the country’s urgent need to diversify its immigration destinations.
#Moroccan_Sahara: The position of the Republic of Kazakhstan as expressed today in the joint statement issued following the meeting between MFA Nasser Bourita and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Murat Nurtleu : pic.twitter.com/uaHcYAAvxp
— Moroccan Diplomacy 🇲🇦 (@Marocdiplo_EN) February 28, 2025
What Will This Agreement Bring to the Kingdom of Morocco?
Looking at the bilateral relations between Morocco and Kazakhstan, this visa exemption appears as a diplomatic step that could open new avenues for cooperation between the two countries in various fields. Will this agreement open new doors for trade, tourism, or even cultural exchange? It is clear that Kazakhstan, as an emerging economic power in Central Asia, represents a promising market for Moroccan products in various sectors, particularly food processing and textiles. It could also enhance mutual tourism, as Kazakhs can now visit Morocco without visa restrictions.
But, Would It Have Been More Beneficial to Focus on Similar Agreements with European Countries?
At a time when Morocco faces high unemployment rates among skilled graduates and jobless youth, wouldn’t it have been more relevant for Morocco to focus its efforts on signing similar agreements with European countries, where it could export its talents in various sectors? These European countries, which often face shortages of skilled labor, could offer real opportunities for Moroccans in fields ranging from artisans to university graduates seeking opportunities abroad. While the agreement with Kazakhstan seems to have limited direct impact on youth employment, isn’t it more pertinent to turn to Europe to address current economic challenges?
Strategic Dimensions for Morocco: Searching for a Balance Between East and West
Although this decision might seem surprising at first, it is possible that Morocco is looking to diversify its international relations. Does the agreement with Kazakhstan represent part of a broader policy of expanding international partnerships? Morocco, constantly seeking geopolitical and economic influence, may see Kazakhstan as a gateway to a rapidly growing economic region. While Kazakhstan may not be a major European country, its economic and political ties could allow Morocco to strengthen its presence in Central Asia, a region of strategic growth.
Does Morocco Need to Open New Perspectives at This Stage?
The shift toward Kazakhstan might make sense in the context of strengthening South-South partnerships, focusing on countries outside the traditional Western circles. But does this policy address real needs or simply provide marginal benefits in trade or tourism? A central question arises: Does Morocco not need to first strengthen its partnerships with European countries? The internal issues of unemployment and youth training are particularly pressing, and strategic agreements with European countries better equipped to absorb skilled professionals would likely be more beneficial.
General Context: Is This a Way to Calm Internal Tensions?
It is notable that this policy of rapprochement with Kazakhstan comes at a time of internal tensions related to youth unemployment. Is this agreement merely an attempt to divert attention from the country’s internal economic challenges? As demands to improve youth employability grow, some may feel that Morocco would benefit more from establishing targeted migration strategies toward developed countries capable of integrating skilled labor.
Conclusion: Between Benefits and Challenges
There is no doubt that the visa exemption agreement with Kazakhstan opens the door for strengthened bilateral relations, particularly in trade and tourism. However, the question remains: was this decision sufficiently relevant given Morocco’s immediate needs? The answer to this question will depend on the delicate balance Morocco seeks to establish between its economic and geopolitical interests and its internal social priorities, particularly regarding employment and support for youth.
