The relationship between Morocco and the Philippines is built upon a significant foundation, ripe for enhancement across various strategic sectors, Ambassador Leslie Baja affirmed. He expressed satisfaction regarding the half-century of diplomatic ties between the two nations, which were commemorated last year.

In a recent interview, Ambassador Baja highlighted that both countries have traversed a rich journey marked by high-level exchanges, the signing of numerous agreements, and the cultivation of robust human connections. He views these as fundamental elements for the next fifty years of collaboration.

Economically, the Philippine diplomat observed a notable expansion in bilateral trade volume in recent years. He indicated that commerce between Morocco and the Philippines has seen an approximate 50% increase, even though current figures have not yet reached the full potential envisioned by both parties.

Ambassador Baja believes that Morocco, positioned as a vital gateway to both Africa and Europe, and the Philippines, an active member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), possess complementary strengths that are conducive to fostering deeper economic cooperation.

He underscored promising opportunities within sectors such as agro-industry, aeronautics, electronics, and textiles. Furthermore, he noted the Philippines’ standing as a significant importer of Moroccan phosphate.

Discussing regional cooperation prospects, the Ambassador lauded the sectoral partnership agreement forged in 2023 between Morocco and ASEAN. He views this accord as opening a vast array of collaborative avenues, both bilaterally and across the broader region.

Regarding the Royal Atlantic Initiative, which aims to facilitate Atlantic Ocean access for Sahelian states, Mr. Baja commented that this endeavor contributes to strengthening African regional integration, drawing parallels with ASEAN’s successful experience. He anticipates positive economic, political, and social impacts from this initiative.

“Africa’s regional integration will undoubtedly benefit the continent economically and politically, leading to a more politically stable, economically resilient, and culturally flourishing Africa,” he remarked.

Pertaining to Manila’s support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Kingdom’s Southern Provinces, the Ambassador recalled that during the Philippine Foreign Minister’s visit to Morocco in 2022, the Philippines affirmed the Moroccan Initiative as a “solid basis” for resolving the dispute.

United Nations Security Council Resolution 2797 represents a “game changer” in this matter, Ambassador Baja noted, expressing optimism for the successful conclusion of the political process.

He also reiterated his country’s backing for the UN-led efforts to achieve a definitive resolution to this issue.

Additionally, Ambassador Baja spoke about a forthcoming book dedicated to the history of Morocco-Philippines relations, scheduled for presentation this Thursday. He explained that this publication aims to chronicle a half-century of cooperation and highlight the contributions of both Moroccan and Filipino people in fostering closer ties between the two nations.

According to him, the book goes beyond a mere presentation of historical facts, offering a testament to the human connections that have fortified the relationship between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of the Philippines.