When London calls Morocco a “trusted partner”: What does this mean in the post-Brexit era?
In London’s financial district, far from diplomatic pleasantries, a discreet yet meaningful alliance is quietly taking shape. By calling Morocco a “trusted partner”, Ben Coleman, the UK Prime Minister’s trade envoy, wasn’t being polite — he was signalling a strategic shift in British foreign trade priorities.
But why Morocco? And why now?
Beyond niceties: Is a new strategic axis forming?
As the world reshuffles its power dynamics, post-Brexit Britain is looking for new anchors. Morocco is emerging as a potential gateway — not just for trade, but for strategic reach into Africa.
Could Rabat become the new backstage of British interests on the continent? Are we witnessing the rise of smart partnerships between the Global North and South — partnerships based on trust rather than dependency?
800 years of ties — but is it time to break from old habits?
Referencing the 1721 trade agreement between the two kingdoms is symbolic. Yet, does this legacy suffice to build a balanced partnership?
Is Morocco truly helping shape the terms of this relationship — or is it merely playing the role of a “reliable” recipient?
What does Britain really want?
Behind the diplomatic language, the UK seems to be pursuing several goals:
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Leverage Morocco’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa;
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Invest in major infrastructure projects;
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Access new capital markets;
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Counterbalance Chinese, Turkish, and other global influences in Africa.
But does Morocco have a well-defined, sovereign vision of its role in this equation?
Trust isn’t enough: Are we prepared?
The “Moroccan Capital Markets Days” event shows Morocco’s ambition to integrate global finance. But:
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Is the regulatory framework investment-ready?
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Are our institutions mature enough to manage such a transformation?
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Do we have the talent pool to support international financial integration?
Africa as leverage: A gateway or a decision-making hub?
When Coleman said, “Morocco is a great gateway to Africa,” he raised a critical question:
Who truly holds the keys to Africa’s future?
Morocco has the networks and stability, but is that enough for it to become a strategic decision-maker rather than just a passageway?
Conclusion: Toward a partnership of mutual sovereignty
Britain calling Morocco a “trusted partner” is more than a compliment — it is an invitation to reshape the rules of engagement.
The future of this alliance depends on whether Morocco can rise from being a trustworthy destination to becoming a sovereign co-architect of this strategic partnership.
Is Morocco ready to move from passive trust to active reciprocity?
