Free trade between Morocco and America…a catalyst for economic growth in Africa
Heba Press/WMA
The Washington Institute for Near East Policy highlighted that the US-Morocco free trade agreement embodies a strong partnership that will serve as a catalyst for growth and economic integration in Africa.
The research center indicated, in an analysis led by Sabina Heinberg, that the volume of trade between the two countries has experienced constant growth thanks to this agreement concluded in 2004, also noting the importance of this agreement in strengthening the Moroccan-American strategic partnership at the political level.
In this regard, she referred to the confirmation by the administration of President Joe Biden of the decision taken by the administration of his predecessor, Donald Trump, to recognize the full sovereignty of Morocco over its southern provinces.
The expert stressed that this position, which has become one of the main pillars of bilateral relations, would continue regardless of the winner of the American presidential elections scheduled for next November, reviewing the international dynamics observed in this issue, in light of the recent decisions taken by France to support Moroccan sovereignty over its desert.
On the other hand, Sabina Heinberg affirmed that Morocco is one of the few countries that have concluded a similar agreement with the United States, and the only one in Africa, explaining that Washington, which is betting on promoting economic growth and trade on the continent, can count on the Kingdom as a pole of growth and investment on the African continent.
She considered that Morocco is in a good position that allows it to facilitate economic growth and benefit from investments in Africa, thanks to the trade agreements concluded with many partners, in addition to the signing of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement. She added that the Kingdom has become among the leading African countries in terms of foreign direct investments.
Referring to the economic progress made by Morocco over the past two decades, the analyst noted that the Kingdom has experienced remarkable economic growth in recent years.
On the other hand, the American Research Center reviewed the reforms experienced by Morocco, including the adoption of a new investment charter and the launch of major structuring projects, such as the high-speed railway line and the Tangier Med port, which have contributed to strengthening Morocco’s position as a destination conducive to investment.
The Washington Institute for Near East Policy discussed the prospects for Moroccan-American economic relations, stressing the importance of continuing to promote investments and focusing on high value-added industries that contribute to creating employment opportunities, supporting cooperation and strategic partnership between the two countries. two countries.
