In an increasingly interconnected world, diplomatic relations play a crucial role in fostering stability, mutual understanding, and collaboration among nations. Nezha Alaoui M’Hammdi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Ethiopia and Djibouti, embodies this vision through her extensive diplomatic career and commitment to strengthening ties between Morocco and Ethiopia.
Ambassador Nezha’s tenure has been marked by significant milestones, including her role as Morocco’s first Permanent Representative to the African Union following the country’s return in 2017. With a wealth of experience in international relations dating back to her service in the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1989, she has orchestrated vital connections between her nation and various African counterparts.
In this interview, we dig into Ambassador Nezha’s insights on the state of Morocco-Ethiopia relations, highlighting key areas of cooperation, achievements under King Mohammed VI’s leadership, and future ambitions for collaboration. Her perspective underscores the importance of cultural exchange, regional integration, and sustainable development as both countries navigate their paths toward collective progress and stability on the African continent. Join us as we explore the depth of this bilateral relationship and the vision for a prosperous partnership between Morocco and Ethiopia. Excerpts:
Capital: As the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Ethiopia, how would you characterize the current state of diplomatic relations between your country and Ethiopia? What are the key areas of cooperation and collaboration between the two nations?
Ambassador Nezha Alaoui M’Hammdi: As the Ambassador His Majesty the King Mohammed VI to Ethiopia and Djibouti, I can confidently state that the diplomatic relations between our two nations are flourishing. The partnership is deeply rooted in a rich history of cooperation. Significantly strengthened by the visit of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to Ethiopia in 2016, our bilateral relations have seen a renewed vigor, particularly through the lens of South-South cooperation. This historic visit led to the signing of numerous agreements across various sectors, such as air services, trade, taxation, investment, agriculture, and renewable energy.
The first political consultation between Morocco and Ethiopia, held recently in Addis Ababa, marked a significant milestone in our diplomatic engagement. This meeting reviewed the current state of bilateral relations and explored potential partnerships in agriculture, water and food security, investment, trade, green energy, and civil aviation. Furthermore, visits have been made recently by high-ranking military officials of the two countries. Also, there was a visit of a delegation from the Mohammed VI Foundation of African Oulemas (Scholars), engaging in extensive exchanges with various governmental and religious institutions. This visit aimed to promote a culture of peace, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue and underscored our commitment to reinforcing the long-standing friendship and mutual support between our countries.
This dynamic and comprehensive partnership not only benefits both nations but also serves as a model of successful South-South cooperation, contributing to the broader development and stability of the African continent.
Capital: This year marks the 25th anniversary of His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s accession to the Moroccan throne. What are some of the major achievements and developments that have occurred in Morocco over the past quarter-century under King Mohammed VI’s leadership? What would you say have been some of the most significant social, economic, and political reforms and advancements that have occurred in Morocco? How have these changes impacted the daily lives of Moroccan citizens?
Ambassador Nezha: Since His Majesty the King Mohammed VI assumed power, Morocco has undergone transformative social, economic, and political reforms, significantly impacting the lives of its citizens.
Socially, one of the most notable reforms was the overhaul of the family code, known as the Moudawana, in 2004. This reform granted women greater rights, representing a major step forward in gender equality. Recently, His Majesty King Mohammed VI has called for further reform of the Moudawana to continue advancing women’s rights and address ongoing issues, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender equality and social justice.
Additionally, there have been substantial investments in education, with a focus on increasing literacy rates and access to schooling. Healthcare improvements have also been significant, with expanded access to medical services and better health outcomes for the population. The implementation of generalized social protection has further enhanced the well-being of citizens by providing comprehensive coverage, including health insurance, pensions, and support for vulnerable groups. We all remember also that the Kingdom of Morocco was a model during the COVID-19 pandemic for its effective response and crisis management. The country’s strategic actions in addressing the situation demonstrated its ability to handle such unprecedented challenges efficiently.
Economically, Morocco has embarked on ambitious infrastructure projects and economic diversification initiatives. The country has invested heavily in renewable energy, particularly solar and wind power, positioning itself as a leader in sustainable energy in Africa. Additionally, the development of the Tanger-Med port has transformed Morocco into a significant logistics hub, boosting trade and attracting foreign investment.
Politically, His Majesty the King Mohammed VI has overseen a gradual process of various reforms. The 2011 constitutional reforms promoted greater political participation and accountability. These reforms have encouraged a more vibrant civil society and political landscape. The establishment of the National Human Rights Council in 2011 and the Equity and Reconciliation Commission in 2004 has also contributed to a more open and accountable governance framework. Furthermore, the regionalization process initiated in 2015 aims to devolve powers to local authorities, enhancing local governance and addressing regional disparities.
Overall, these reforms and advancements have collectively enhanced the quality of life for Moroccan citizens, providing them with greater opportunities, rights, and a more stable and prosperous environment. The combination of social, economic, and political changes has created a more dynamic and resilient society, better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Capital: Can you share your perspective on the importance of the Morocco-Ethiopia relationship, especially in the context of broader regional dynamics in the Horn of Africa and North Africa? How have the two countries worked to strengthen their ties in areas such as trade, investment, and regional security?
Ambassador Nezha: The relationship between Morocco and Ethiopia holds significant importance within the broader regional dynamics of the Horn of Africa and North Africa. This partnership serves as a strategic bridge connecting these two critical regions, fostering stability, economic growth, and political collaboration. By strengthening their bilateral ties, Morocco and Ethiopia contribute to the overarching goals of African unity and development.
Trade and investment have been key areas of focus, with both nations actively pursuing opportunities to increase bilateral trade, reduce trade barriers, and encourage mutual investment. The two countries have joined the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), underscoring their commitment to promoting economic integration and development at the continental level. Notably, Morocco’s OCP Group has made significant investments in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector, supporting Ethiopia’s ambitions for increased agricultural productivity and food security.
Regional security is another critical area where Morocco and Ethiopia have found common ground. Both countries face security challenges and recognize the importance of collaborative efforts to address these issues. Through joint initiatives and participation in regional organizations like the African Union, they work together to promote peace, stability, and security in their respective regions. Diplomatic exchanges and high-level visits have reinforced their partnership, leading to agreements and memoranda of understanding in education, health, and infrastructure development. In sum, the Morocco-Ethiopia relationship is crucial not only for the bilateral benefits it brings but also for its positive impact on regional dynamics.
Capital: What are some of the cultural and people-to-people exchanges that have taken place between Morocco and Ethiopia in recent years? How have initiatives in sectors like tourism, education, sports, and the arts helped to foster greater mutual understanding between the two nations?
Ambassador Nezha: In recent years, cultural and people-to-people exchanges between Morocco and Ethiopia have played a significant role in fostering greater mutual understanding and strengthening bilateral relations. These exchanges have spanned various sectors, including tourism, education, and the arts, each contributing to a deeper appreciation of each other’s cultures and societies.
In sports, many Ethiopian athletes have recently participated and won in marathons organized in Morocco. The two countries are sharing their experiences in this field and working together to enhance athletic cooperation by organizing reciprocal visits. Additionally, the football federations in the two countries have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate and exchange expertise.
In the tourism sector, both countries have promoted travel and cultural exchange programs to encourage their citizens to explore and experience each other’s heritage and traditions. Moroccan tourism initiatives have welcomed Ethiopian visitors to discover Morocco’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. These exchanges have not only boosted tourism but also created lasting connections between the people of both nations.
Education has been another critical area of exchange, with numerous initiatives aimed at fostering academic collaboration and student mobility. Moroccan universities have established scholarship programs for Ethiopian students, enabling them to pursue higher education in Morocco. Additionally, academic partnerships and joint research projects are being implemented between Moroccan and Ethiopian institutions, promoting knowledge sharing and capacity building. These educational exchanges have helped to build bridges between the two countries, fostering a generation of leaders and professionals with a deep understanding of each other’s contexts and challenges.
The arts have also played a vital role in cultural exchange between Morocco and Ethiopia. Collaborative art exhibitions, music festivals, and cultural festivals have brought together artists and performers from both countries, showcasing their talents and creating a platform for cultural dialogue. For example, Ethiopian artists have participated in events such as the Marrakech Biennale. These artistic exchanges have enriched the cultural landscapes of both nations and promoted a greater appreciation of their respective artistic traditions.
These initiatives have created lasting connections, promoted knowledge sharing, and enriched the cultural fabric of both nations, laying the foundation for a more robust and enduring partnership.
Capital: Looking ahead, what are some of the key priorities and areas of focus for Morocco’s engagement with Ethiopia in the coming years? Are there any new initiatives or collaborations that the two countries are exploring to further deepen their partnership?
Ambassador Nezha: The future of Morocco’s engagement with Ethiopia looks brighter than ever. Building on the strong historical ties and recent political consultations between our two countries, we have identified several key areas where we can deepen our partnership. These consultations have highlighted the mutual benefits and opportunities that can arise from closer collaboration, and we are enthusiastic about the prospects ahead. Among the areas identified, agriculture, tourism, renewable energy, and education stand out as pivotal sectors where our nations can significantly benefit from each other’s strengths and experiences.
In the field of agriculture, both Morocco and Ethiopia possess vast potential. “The Plan Maroc Vert” (Green Morocco Plan 2008-2020) and Green Generation 2020-2030 and “the Green Legacy” initiative represent a shared vision, aiming for similar objectives of sustainable development and agricultural innovation. And by sharing expertise and innovative practices, we can enhance food security and agricultural productivity, addressing one of the critical challenges facing our nations today. Our collaboration aims to introduce advanced agricultural techniques, improve water management, and boost the overall efficiency of our agricultural sectors. This partnership will not only contribute to our economies but also to the well-being of our rural communities.
Tourism is another vital sector where we see substantial opportunities for growth. Both Morocco and Ethiopia are rich in cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty. By fostering closer ties, we can promote tourism between our countries, creating new travel experiences and boosting economic development.
Renewable energy and education are also at the forefront of our collaborative efforts. Morocco has made significant strides in renewable energy, and we are eager to share our expertise with Ethiopia. By working together, we can advance sustainable energy solutions, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to global environmental goals.
Capital: As the Moroccan Ambassador, how do you view your role in promoting stronger ties between Morocco and Ethiopia? What strategies or approaches have you found to be effective in strengthening bilateral cooperation and highlighting the shared interests and values of the two nations?
Ambassador Nezha: As the Ambassador of His Majesty the King, my role in promoting stronger ties between Morocco and Ethiopia is multifaceted and pivotal. I see my position as one that fosters mutual understanding, cooperation, and shared growth between our two nations. My primary objective is to act as a bridge, facilitating communication and collaboration across various sectors. This involves engaging with key stakeholders in both countries, including government officials, business leaders, and cultural actors, to identify and develop areas of mutual interest and benefit.
Capital: Given Morocco’s strategic location and long history, how does the country view its role in fostering greater regional integration and cooperation, particularly within the context of the African Union and other multilateral frameworks? How does the Morocco-Ethiopia relationship fit into this broader regional vision?
Ambassador Nezha: Given Morocco’s strategic location and long history, the country views its role in fostering greater regional integration and cooperation as both a responsibility and an opportunity. As a gateway between Africa, Europe, the Middle East and the Atlantic Ocean, Morocco is uniquely positioned to facilitate economic, political, and cultural exchanges.
The partnership between the two countries exemplifies Morocco’s approach to fostering regional integration through strategic alliances and collaborative projects. Initiatives such as joint investments in agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure development demonstrate the potential for mutually beneficial growth. This relationship also underscores the importance of South-South cooperation, highlighting how African nations can work together to address common challenges and achieve shared goals. In essence, the Morocco-Ethiopia partnership reflects and reinforces Morocco’s commitment to a more integrated and cooperative African continent.
Capital: Morocco has made significant investments in renewable energy in recent years. As ambassador, how do you see Morocco’s clean energy transition and sustainable development efforts influencing its relationships with countries like Ethiopia that are also prioritizing green growth?
Ambassador Nezha: Morocco’s substantial investments in renewable energy have positioned the country as a leader in clean energy transition and sustainable development within Africa. As ambassador, I see Morocco’s commitment to green energy profoundly influencing its relationships with countries like Ethiopia, which are also prioritizing green growth. This shared focus on sustainability opens up numerous opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit. Morocco’s advancements in renewable energy provide a valuable model for other African nations. By sharing our experiences, technologies, and best practices, Morocco can support Ethiopia in its own renewable energy initiatives through joint ventures, technology transfer, and capacity-building programs, fostering a deeper partnership between our nations. In this context, Morocco has set ambitious goals, including strengthening the share of renewable energy in the energy mix to reach 52% by 2030.
Moreover, Morocco and Ethiopia can collaborate on regional projects that promote sustainable development. As both countries strive to meet their climate goals and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change, their partnership can serve as a powerful example of South-South cooperation. This united front can enhance their influence in international forums, such as the United Nations Climate Change Conferences, where they can advocate for the needs and priorities of African nations. By working together, Morocco and Ethiopia can strengthen regional frameworks for renewable energy development, attract international investment, and enhance energy security in Africa, thereby bolstering their diplomatic ties and contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for the continent.
