Rabat: Morocco’s Ambassador to Japan, Rachad Bouhlal, on Thursday hailed the growing momentum of Morocco-Japan relations and the prospects for closer bilateral cooperation, saying the Kingdom’s economic transformation under HM King Mohammed VI had created new opportunities for partnership. Speaking at a reception in Tokyo marking the 27th anniversary of HM King Mohammed VI’s accession to the Throne of His Glorious Ancestors, Bouhlal said bilateral ties were rooted in longstanding bonds of friendship and mutual respect between the Moroccan Royal Family and the Japanese Imperial Family, sustained through regular high-level exchanges.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the ambassador said Morocco had emerged as a regional hub for industry, innovation and sustainable development, highlighting the Kingdom’s economic progress. He also presented the Royal Atlantic Initiative, aimed at improving Atlantic access for landlocked Sahel countries, as a strategic project to foster regional economic integration and development.
Bouhlal said the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Japan this year offered an opportunity to inject fresh momentum into bilateral cooperation. He also welcomed Japan’s position on the Moroccan Sahara issue expressed in May, saying dialogue and mutual understanding between the two countries on the matter would continue to deepen in a spirit of friendship and trust.
Representing the Japanese government, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ayano Kunimitssu praised the expansion of political and economic cooperation, describing Morocco as a stable partner and a strategic gateway to African and European markets. She expressed hope that bilateral ties would deepen further, particularly ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host.
Economic Security Minister Minoru Kiuchi said the celebration carried special significance as it coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He underscored the strength of a partnership built on mutual trust and highlighted Morocco’s growing profile in Japan.
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Norikazu Suzuki, stressed the importance of expanding cooperation in food security and phosphate supplies, saying the bilateral partnership held considerable potential.
The reception, held at the Moroccan ambassador’s residence in Tokyo, brought together Japanese cabinet members, lawmakers, business executives, academics, media representatives and members of civil society.