Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita elaborated on the aspirations and strategic goals of his country prior to the inaugural Korea-Africa Summit slated for Tuesday and Wednesday.
In a written interview with The Korea Times, Bourita, who arrived in Seoul on Saturday to prepare for the summit, also underscored Rabat’s dedication to cultivating a strong and vibrant alliance with Seoul for mutual prosperity.
“The Kingdom of Morocco shares the main objective of the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit, affirming the necessity to move toward a new era of co-prosperity,” he said.
The minister noted that the summit is closely aligned with Morocco’s priorities and the visionary agenda of King Mohammed VI. This agenda aims to foster a positive developmental trajectory for Africa, helping African nations unlock their full potential while addressing pressing challenges.
“The summit offers an opportunity for all of us to reflect on ways and means to build on the spirit of trust and mutual respect,” Bourita said.
He emphasized Morocco’s intent to maximize the benefits of the Korea-Africa partnership through enhanced triangular cooperation, particularly with greater involvement from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
“By encouraging innovation and co-creation, we aim to achieve shared and mutual benefits,” he said.
During his stay in Seoul, the Moroccan minister met his Korean counterpart, Cho Tae-yul, Sunday. Bourita described this meeting as an opportunity to reinforce the dynamic relationship between Korea and Morocco.
“This will be an opportunity to keep growing the dynamic relationship between our two countries, to further consolidate relations, in line with the ambitions of our bilateral relations as well as embed triangular cooperation Morocco-Korea-Africa for the benefit of the African continent,” he said.
One of the key highlights of this diplomatic engagement will be the signing of three significant agreements.
“We will sign three agreements in the fields of climate change, social security development and implementation of the Korean 안전 Cooperation Fund for Development,” Bourita said, noting that they are expected to pave the way for deeper and more structured cooperation in these critical areas.
Reflecting on Korea’s role in fostering partnerships with African nations, Bourita said Korea has always proven to be a credible and reliable partner.
“A profound transformation process is underway in Africa, and Korea is positioning itself as an innovative partner that prioritizes shared prosperity,” he said.