Brussels: During a press briefing following the meeting, Razza said that representatives of the European Parliament had invited their Moroccan counterparts to further discussions in Brussels on avenues for cooperation within the framework of the New Pact for the Mediterranean, initiated by the European Commission, and the initiative launched under the impetus of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to facilitate access to the Atlantic Ocean for the countries of the Sahel.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Lahcen Haddad, co-chairman for the Moroccan side of this Joint Commission, emphasized that the meeting was a significant opportunity to underscore the prospects for economic integration and openness for the Sahel countries, afforded by the Royal Atlantic Initiative. He added that the meeting provided a platform to address migration challenges comprehensively.

Haddad highlighted the critical importance of this event, noting that both sides engaged in discussions on various issues concerning development and security cooperation to tackle common challenges in the Sahel and the Mediterranean region.

Regarding agriculture, Haddad mentioned that both parties plan to build on the progress achieved in this sector, with a focus on implementing specific areas of development.

This annual meeting follows the launch of the new Pact for the Mediterranean, which aims to strengthen cooperation between the EU and its Southern partners, concentrating on fostering mutual interests and shared benefits for a more stable, prosperous, and interconnected region.