Kazakhstan and Morocco: Strategic Partnership Development Initiatives

Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu’s historic visit to Morocco is marked by discussions on enhancing political dialogue, trade relations, and cultural ties. Both nations acknowledged the potential for collaboration in various sectors and committed to establishing a visa-free regime. The ministers also addressed food security, digitalization, and tourism cooperation, concluding with a Joint Communiqué to facilitate ongoing collaboration.

Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu has made his inaugural official visit to Morocco, marking a historic moment in bilateral relations. Invited by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, the discussions centered on strengthening political dialogue, enhancing trade, and fostering cultural ties between the two nations. Both parties recognized vast potential for collaboration across various sectors including energy, transportation, agriculture, and technology, and committed to improving the legal frameworks governing their interactions.

During the talks, Kazakhstan highlighted Morocco’s role as a significant partner in the Middle East and North Africa region, acknowledging over 30 years of diplomatic relations characterized by shared values and constructive parliamentary cooperation. In turn, Minister Bourita acknowledged Kazakhstan’s pivotal position in Central Asia and reiterated Morocco’s determination to enhance multifaceted cooperation.

The trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Morocco saw a notable increase of 70%, reaching $274 million last year. Minister Nurtleu pointed out Kazakhstan’s potential to export high-value products to Morocco, specifically mentioning plans to expand exports of twenty-five essential commodities valued at $130 million, including petrochemical and food products.

They discussed the upcoming mutual establishment of a visa-free regime, which will position Morocco as the first African country to implement such a policy with Kazakhstan, thus facilitating business and personal connections. Furthermore, the ministers addressed food security, expressing gratitude for Morocco’s engagement with the Islamic Organization for Food Security and discussing the importance of ratifying its Charter.

The dialogue also extended to the upcoming Astana International Forum, scheduled for May, which aims to unite global efforts in addressing contemporary challenges. Preparations for the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions were also on the agenda, emphasizing Kazakhstan’s hope for high-level participation from Morocco.

Digitalization was a key focus, with Minister Nurtleu expressing Kazakhstan’s interest in collaborating with Morocco under the “Digital Morocco 2030” initiative, intending to develop e-government and cybersecurity solutions. Both ministers acknowledged the success of cultural initiatives, such as a concert between the Astana and Rabat orchestras, which generated substantial public interest in Morocco.

The discussions concluded with recognition of the significant potential in tourism, where both parties agreed to finalize an agreement on air communication by 2025 and explore direct flight options. They confirmed their mutual intention to enhance cooperation across political, economic, and humanitarian spheres, culminating in a Joint Communiqué which lays the groundwork for future working groups.

Minister Nurtleu also honored Moroccan heritage during his visit by paying respects at the Mausoleum of Sultan Mohammed V, where he laid a wreath and signed the honorary guest book, further solidifying the visit’s significance in strengthening Kazakh-Moroccan ties.

The official visit of Kazakh Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu to Morocco marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between the two nations, with commitments made to enhance cooperation across various critical sectors. Noteworthy discussions included trade growth, cultural exchanges, and the establishment of a visa-free regime, along with collaborative efforts in addressing food security and digitalization. The shared vision to strengthen political, economic, and humanitarian connections reflects a promising future for Kazakh-Moroccan partnerships.

Original Source: dknews.kz