In a world witnessing rapid geopolitical and economic transformations, Morocco is turning its gaze toward building new strategic partnerships that enhance its regional and international standing. Among these partnerships, the growing relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which includes ten of the fastest-growing economies globally, stands out as a new axis in Morocco’s foreign policy, based on diversification and openness.
In a comprehensive article titled “Morocco and ASEAN: A Promising Strategic Partnership,” Dr Fouad LARHZIZER Researcher in Moroccan Asian Relationshipsoffers an integrated vision of the dimensions of this partnership, reviewing recent developments, the opportunities it holds, and the challenges it might face. In this in-depth journalistic reading, we present the main themes of this article and open a discussion on its future implications.
Celebrating the 58th Anniversary of ASEAN in Rabat: A Starting Point for a Renewed Strategy
Morocco chose to celebrate the anniversary of ASEAN’s founding on August 9, 2025, in Rabat through a flag-raising ceremony, a bazaar, and a cultural festival, giving this event a cultural and popular dimension alongside its political and diplomatic significance.
This celebration is not merely a ceremonial occasion but a strong symbol reflecting Morocco’s advanced strategy aimed at building new alliances beyond traditional frameworks previously focused on Europe and America. The celebration illustrates Morocco’s interest in expanding its horizons towards Asia, especially Southeast Asia, which constitutes a central pillar in the royal vision to strengthen South-South cooperation.
From Friendship Treaty to Sectoral Dialogue Partner: The Evolution of Relations
Morocco’s accession to the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation with ASEAN dates back to 2016, but this was only the beginning of a clear developmental process. In September 2023, Morocco obtained the status of “Sectoral Dialogue Partner,” enabling cooperation in targeted areas such as trade, education, energy, environment, food security, and culture.
Analysis of This Phase
Obtaining this status represents official recognition of Morocco’s active role and potential as a strategic partner, not only geographically but also in terms of political and economic ambitions. This advancement allows Morocco to strengthen its presence in ASEAN’s diverse and economically advanced market and to participate in shaping influential regional policies.
Questions for Discussion
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What criteria did ASEAN use to select Morocco as a sectoral dialogue partner? Do these align with Morocco’s political and economic aspirations?
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How can Morocco leverage this status to expand its exports and develop investments in ASEAN countries?
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Is there sufficient political and institutional will within Morocco to translate this privilege into concrete economic partnerships?
The 2024-2028 Practical Cooperation Program: A Roadmap Beyond Diplomatic Relations
In April 2024, ASEAN adopted the Practical Cooperation Program with Morocco for the period 2024-2028, including 32 concrete measures across multiple sectors such as good governance, rule of law, trade, transport, food security, education, youth development, social welfare, and smart city connectivity.
Critical Review of the Program’s Content
This program represents a major step towards consolidating cooperation within a broader framework than mere bilateral diplomatic relations. It opens prospects for operational partnerships that produce tangible results. This approach reflects a desire to enhance institutional capacities, improve quality of life, and connect traditional economies with modern technologies like smart cities.
However, questions remain about Morocco’s capacity to implement this program effectively, especially given infrastructure and resource challenges in some sectors, and the need for coordination among various government agencies and the private sector.
Implementation Challenges
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Are there clear mechanisms to monitor and evaluate progress?
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How will economic and social actors be involved in activating these measures?
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What role will international and local financing play in supporting these projects?
Visit of ASEAN Secretary-General: An Indicator of Deepened Relations and Strengthened Dialogue
A historic visit was made by ASEAN Secretary-General Mr. Kao Kim Hourn to Morocco in June 2025 — the first of its kind to Morocco and Africa. The visit included official meetings, field visits, and interactive lectures, reflecting an advanced level of communication and dialogue.
Significance of the Visit
This visit indicates that the relationship with Morocco now occupies a central place on ASEAN’s agenda, recognizing Morocco’s strategic role as a key gateway to Africa and the Middle East. It also demonstrates the desire of both parties to intensify economic, technical, and cultural exchanges and expresses a joint commitment to peace and sustainable development.
Observations and Analysis
This initiative goes beyond formal protocol to become a platform for dialogue on regional and international issues, confirming the interconnection of economic and political dimensions of this partnership. It also illustrates Morocco’s determination to seize every opportunity to enhance its international and diplomatic stature.
Cooperation Prospects and the Partnership’s Future: Opportunities and Challenges
ASEAN leaders believe that facing global challenges, such as fluctuations in international trade and rising tariffs, requires diversifying economic partnerships, offering Morocco a major opportunity to be a key player in this dynamic.
Strategic Opportunities
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Signing a free trade agreement between Morocco and ASEAN, opening new markets for Morocco and boosting its exports.
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Participating in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world’s largest free trade area, allowing Morocco to benefit from Asia’s vibrant markets.
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Implementing concrete projects in sectors proposed by Morocco, such as agriculture, food security, economy and trade, climate change, and sustainable development.
Challenges
Despite these broad opportunities, challenges exist regarding technical readiness, legal harmonization, the capacity to compete with advanced Asian companies, and upgrading infrastructure to meet partnership requirements.
Crucial Questions
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Does Morocco have the necessary resources to develop productive sectors and modernize infrastructure?
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How can the circle of beneficiaries of this partnership be expanded to include youth and the private sector?
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What role can educational and research institutions play in developing this relationship?
South-South Partnership: A Strategic Political Dimension
Dr. Fouad Al-Ghazeer situates this partnership within a broader royal vision calling for enhanced South-South cooperation as a strategic choice for Morocco.
Analysis
This vision is an intelligent response to globalization challenges, where Morocco cannot remain confined to traditional cooperation frameworks. This partnership allows it to connect with an emerging economic bloc and build new alliances that strengthen its regional and international position.
Impact of This Vision
Strengthening cooperation with ASEAN also enhances Morocco’s role in peace initiatives, sustainable development, and human development across Africa and the world, reinforcing its image as a bridge country between cultures and continents.
Conclusion and Final Analysis
Dr. Fouad Al-Ghazeer’s article constitutes an in-depth reading that goes beyond superficial event coverage to offer a comprehensive political and economic analysis highlighting the complexity, challenges, and importance of the partnership between Morocco and ASEAN.
This promising partnership comes at a critical historic moment, requiring Morocco to build institutional and technical capacities to fully benefit, while involving all concerned actors — governments, institutions, and citizens — to ensure the achievement of development and prosperity goals.
Success in this partnership will not only mean strengthening Morocco’s position on the global economic map but also opening new horizons for building a multidimensional international cooperation model based on mutual respect and shared development.
