Belgian FM Calls Belgium-Morocco Ties ‘Most Exhaustive & Diversified in Region’


Rabat: Relations between Belgium and Morocco are ‘the most exhaustive and diversified in the region’, Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs, Foreign Trade and Cultural Institutions Bernard Quintin praised here on Wednesday, as part of a working visit to the Kingdom on January 29-30.



According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Quintin emphasized the strong human ties between the two countries, highlighting the Moroccan community in Belgium, particularly in Brussels, which numbers around 800,000 people. This community significantly contributes to the diversity and intermingling of Belgian society. At a joint press briefing with Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates Nasser Bourita, Quintin discussed the historical alliance between the two nations.



The Belgian minister also acknowledged the political closeness and cooperation in areas such as illegal immigration, justice, and police matters. Quintin expressed Belgium’s hope to strengthen this collaboration further, as these issues are expected to remain priorities for the new government.



Quintin highlighted the privileged economic ties with Morocco, noting that Belgian exports of goods to the Kingdom amounted to around £1.3 billion up to October 2024, marking a growth of almost 15% compared to the same period in 2023. He described this increase as ‘very positive’ and expressed Belgium’s intention to enhance this momentum, stressing the importance of aligning trade with human and political relations.



Moreover, Belgium aims to support Morocco’s economic and ecological growth through its federated authorities and companies by contributing to major projects. Quintin announced that Belgian companies are ready and equipped to participate in these initiatives, with numerous thematic economic missions planned for Morocco in 2025.