Morocco and Zambia signed seven cooperation agreements in Laayoune, focusing on tourism, renewable energy, vocational training, justice, investment, and higher education. This initiative, co-chaired by Foreign Ministers Nasser Bourita and Mulambo Haimbe, aims to reinforce bilateral ties amid the ongoing Sahara territorial dispute, with Zambia expressing support for Morocco’s autonomy plan. The agreements seek to improve economic and educational collaboration between the nations.
On Friday, Morocco and Zambia entered into a significant diplomatic milestone by formalizing seven cooperation agreements in Laayoune, situated in the disputed Sahara region. This event transpired during the inaugural session of the Joint Cooperation Commission, co-chaired by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Zambian Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe. The agreements encompass various sectors, including tourism, renewable energy, vocational training, justice, investment, and higher education, underscoring the commitment of both nations to strengthen their bilateral relations.
During the meeting, both ministers emphasized their desire to cultivate a multidimensional partnership, aligned with the vision of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema. Minister Haimbe presented a written message from President Hichilema to King Mohammed VI, which underscored the importance of cooperation between the two countries. Furthermore, Haimbe acknowledged Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara region, commending the increasing international support for this initiative and the leadership displayed by King Mohammed VI in advancing Moroccan sovereignty.
These agreements come amid the ongoing territorial dispute regarding the Sahara region, where Morocco maintains its stance on regional autonomy under its sovereignty, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, seeks a referendum on self-determination. Both nations expressed their commitment to addressing shared challenges and enhancing their partnership, with the Zambian Foreign Minister pledging support for efforts led by the United Nations to find a realistic and sustainable resolution to the Sahara conflict.
Going forward, these cooperation agreements are poised to bolster economic, social, and educational collaboration between Morocco and Zambia, ultimately reinforcing their strategic partnership in the region.
The highlighted cooperation agreements between Morocco and Zambia happen against the backdrop of Morocco’s ongoing territorial dispute concerning the Sahara region. The region’s status has been a contentious issue, with Morocco advocating for a plan of regional autonomy that falls under its sovereignty, while the Polisario Front seeks self-determination for the area, backed by Algeria. Both nations are now looking to enhance bilateral ties and address mutual regional challenges, reflecting a commitment to a sustainable partnership.
In summary, the recent signing of seven cooperation agreements between Morocco and Zambia marks a crucial development in the diplomatic relations of both countries. These agreements signify a mutual commitment to enhancing collaboration across diverse sectors, including tourism, energy, and education, while also acknowledging the ongoing Sahara dispute and supporting unified solutions. The partnership reflects a broader vision for shared prosperity and stability in the region.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
