By : Lloyd Mahachi
Chinese President Xi Jinping made a brief visit to Morocco on Thursday, November 21, 2024, as part of his international tour. Xi was warmly welcomed in Casablanca by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, and other high-ranking officials. The visit highlighted the strong bonds of friendship, cooperation, and solidarity between Morocco and China. This trip marked an important milestone in the growing relationship between the two nations, with China seeking to expand its influence in Africa and Morocco looking to strengthen its economic ties with the Asian giant.
During his visit, Xi had a cordial conversation with Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan at the airport. This meeting reflected the growing ties between the two nations and demonstrated China’s commitment to building strong relationships with African countries. Xi’s visit to Morocco came after attending the G20 Summit in Brazil, where he met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. This international tour has showcased Xi’s efforts to strengthen China’s position on the global stage and promote its economic and diplomatic interests worldwide.
Morocco has become an attractive destination for Chinese investors, particularly in the infrastructure and rail sectors. The country’s strategic location near Europe, its free trade agreements with key EU and US markets, and its existing automotive industry make it an ideal location for Chinese electric vehicle battery manufacturers. In June 2024, Chinese EV battery manufacturer Gotion High Tech announced plans to set up Africa’s first gigafactory in Morocco, with a total investment of $1.3 billion. This project is expected to create thousands of jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Xi’s visit to Morocco is seen as a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. The visit reflects China’s growing interest in Africa and its desire to expand its economic and diplomatic influence on the continent. As China continues to invest in Morocco’s infrastructure and industry, the country is likely to become an important partner for China in Africa. This partnership will not only benefit both nations but also contribute to the growth and development of the African continent as a whole.
The growing relationship between China and Morocco is also expected to have a positive impact on regional trade and economic cooperation. China’s investment in Morocco’s infrastructure will improve the country’s connectivity with other African nations and facilitate the flow of goods and services across the continent. This, in turn, will create new opportunities for economic growth and development in the region.
In conclusion, Xi Jinping’s visit to Morocco marks an important milestone in the growing relationship between China and Africa. As China continues to expand its influence on the continent, Morocco is likely to play a key role in promoting economic cooperation and regional trade. The partnership between China and Morocco will not only benefit both nations but also contribute to the growth and development of the African continent as a whole.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi
