Washington: Under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has positioned itself as a vital player in the global landscape of critical minerals, offering unparalleled geostrategic significance, attractive visibility, and a responsible partnership, as highlighted by Nasser Bourita, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates. This was emphasized during a ministerial meeting on critical minerals organized by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, Bourita asserted that while the world is not facing a shortage of minerals or rare earths, there is a need for responsible development and a trustworthy framework where partnerships replace dependencies. He emphasized the importance of creating a value chain that distributes prosperity and reduces risks.

Bourita urged for a “loyalty pact” among producers, processors, and users, grounded in strategic respect and sovereign balance rather than ideology. He pointed out that Africa should be central to this pact, citing the continent’s significant share of the world’s raw material and strategic mineral reserves. He reflected on the message from His Majesty King Mohammed VI, which stressed Africa’s potential beyond being a mere exporter of raw materials.

The minister advocated for investments in Africa’s infrastructure, capacities, and governance to convert its natural wealth into sustainable economic growth and long-term prosperity. He criticized the current state of mining globalization as neither free, fair, nor resilient, describing it as a source of unilateral pressure rather than a foundation for global progress.

Bourita concluded by expressing hope that the current century, while marked by critical minerals, would also be characterized by reliable partnerships, mutual respect, and shared stability. In support of this vision, he signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United States to enhance cooperation in the field of critical minerals and rare earths.