MANILA – The Moroccan government is committed to further elevating its relations with the Philippines, its top diplomat in Manila affirmed as the two nations forge closer cooperation in various fields.
In a reception commemorating the accession of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI in Makati City on July 30, Moroccan Ambassador to the Philippines Mohammed Rida El-Fassi touted the positive developments in Morocco-Philippines relations over the past years.
“Our ties have grown stronger, highlighted by significant milestones such as the re-opening of the Philippine Embassy in Rabat that confirms Manila's commitment to deepening its relationship with Morocco. Our diplomatic presence in each other's capitals underscores our mutual dedication to enhance bilateral ties,” he said.
El-Fassi added that the numerous high-level visits have given a “dynamic push” to the Philippines-Morocco bilateral partnership, “expanding cooperation to many unexplored fields, reinforcing the legal framework and giving more impetus to our political, economic and cultural cooperation as well as inter-parliamentary relations.”
In his speech, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary for Middle East and Africa Mardomel Celo Melicor said the Philippines places “great significance” on its bilateral relations with Morocco.
“In 2025, the Philippines and Morocco will celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations and we convey the Philippines' commitment to continually deepen ties with the Kingdom,” he said.
“As both middle income countries and active members of the international community, I am certain our two countries can continue working together on issues of common concern."
He also looked forward to Morocco serving as a bridge between the African and Southeast Asian regions with its recent designation as a sectoral dialogue partner of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
“We recognize the potential of promoting not only our bilateral relations but the relations between the African and Southeast Asian regions as well,” Melicor said.
Under this partnership, ASEAN and Morocco from 2024 to 2028 will develop projects and programs in various areas, including on trade and investment, tourism, food security, halal food, maritime cooperation, conflict resolution, and combatting transnational crime, among others.
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita had previously regarded the Philippines as a "major element" in Southeast Asia, seeing it as a gateway for Morocco as it advances its ties with the ASEAN, just as Rabat can serve as a gateway for the Philippines' sustained economic presence in Africa.
El-Fassi noted that Morocco has witnessed several game-changing political, social, and economic reforms since King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne in 1999.
It also launched significant initiatives for economic progress and infrastructure projects such as ports, a power station, and the Boraq, the first and only high-speed train in Africa.
“Morocco's commitment to promote security, stability, economic development and religious tolerance has extended beyond its borders,” he said.
“Alongside its historical alliances, the country open up to different regions of the world emphasizing on the south-south cooperation, which is a strategic lever of its foreign policy,” he added. (PNA)
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