Rabat: Morocco’s ambassador to Russia, Lotfi Bouchaara, who was taking stock of the meeting, said the session was marked by the signing of several important agreements in order to ‘give a strategic vision to this commission’ and diversify bilateral ties, which have been resting for the recent years ‘mainly on agricultural and maritime ties.’

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the ambassador emphasized the objective to explore new directions for the bilateral relationship, aiming to enhance its substance. The session was co-chaired by Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Dmitry Patrushev. The ambassador highlighted the mutual respect between King Mohammed VI and President Vladimir Putin, noting their shared determination to advance relations.

Ilya Chestakov, head of the Russian Federal Agency for Fishery, highlighted the significance of a new maritime fisheries cooperation agreement, which allows Russian
-flagged vessels to fish 90,000 tons in Morocco’s exclusive economic zone. On the trade front, Alexey Andreev, Russia’s trade representative in Morocco, expressed satisfaction with the progress made, particularly in transport, agriculture, trade, and the pharmaceutical industry. He mentioned potential industrial projects and cooperation in construction, including new football stadiums, drawing on Russia’s experience.

Bilal Hajjouji, director of the National Interprofessional Office for Cereals and Legumes, stated that the meeting opens new prospects for agriculture. Morocco views the Russian Federation as a major strategic partner for importing legumes and cereals, while Morocco exports citrus and red fruits to Russia. Mhanni Loudyi from the Ministry of Equipment and Water described the discussions as ‘constructive and fruitful,’ covering water cooperation, infrastructure, and civil engineering, with Russia showing interest in investing in Morocco’s water infrastructure and pollution control innovations.

Ab
delaSli Lefdaoui of the Ministry of Energy Transition noted Russia’s interest in investing in Morocco’s renewable energy and electricity sectors, describing the cooperation as mutually beneficial. Abdelhadi Said from the Customs and Excise Administration mentioned renewed customs cooperation, with two new instruments signed to facilitate Moroccan product access to the Russian market.

The session underscored a convergence of visions and priorities, reaffirming a commitment to a comprehensive partnership offering new economic and technological opportunities.