Casablanca – In a recent statement, the new European Union Ambassador to Morocco, Dimiter Tzantchev, praised the “remarkable success” of economic relations between Rabat and Brussels, noting that bilateral trade has increased fivefold over the past quarter-century. Yet behind these impressive figures lie deeper strategic questions about the nature of this partnership, its social and political dimensions, and its real impact on ordinary Moroccan citizens.
Since the signing of the partnership agreement in the late 1990s, trade between Morocco and the European Union has seen significant growth, with exchanges exceeding €60 billion in 2024. Morocco relies heavily on the European market for exports of agricultural and industrial products, while the EU remains the country’s main supplier and investor. However, this relationship, though appearing balanced on paper, reveals an unequal mutual dependence, reflecting a clear power asymmetry between North and South.
Economics alone does not tell the full story. Morocco plays a central role in migration and security matters, making economic cooperation part of a broader geopolitical network where national sovereignty and European interests intertwine. Furthermore, agreements including Morocco Sahara have sparked legal and political tensions, making the “success” of this partnership a constant subject of debate among civil society and international observers.
Another emerging challenge lies in global economic competition, particularly as Morocco expands relations with China, attracting major infrastructure investments. This raises the question of Morocco’s capacity to redefine its role, shifting from a dependent partner to an influential actor in both European and global markets.
In this context, the ambassador’s statements should not be seen merely as a celebration of numbers but as an invitation to reflect on the depth of the relationship, the balance of interests, and its tangible effects on Moroccan citizens. Are we witnessing a truly equal partnership, or is this merely a strategic repositioning within a broader international game that goes far beyond trade?
