7th ministerial session of African Atlantic states process kicks off in Cotonou
Historic gathering in Cotonou advances African Atlantic cooperation
Cotonou became the focal point of African maritime diplomacy this week as the 7th Ministerial Meeting of the African States Atlantic Process (ASAP) launched under the joint leadership of Morocco and Benin.
The high-level gathering, taking place for the first time in Benin’s economic capital, brings together senior officials from African Atlantic nations to strengthen regional collaboration across critical sectors.
Moroccan delegation leads with strategic vision
The Moroccan delegation is headed by Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation, accompanied by key figures including Tarik Iziraren, ASAP’s permanent secretary, and Ambassador Rachid Rguibi of Morocco to Benin.
The delegation also includes representatives from Morocco’s ministries of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad, reflecting the comprehensive approach to regional engagement.
Visionary framework drives regional integration
The ASAP initiative aligns with His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s strategic vision to transform the African Atlantic space into a zone of shared peace, stability, and prosperity.
Since its inception in Rabat in June 2022, the process has achieved significant milestones:
- Establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat
- Creation of three thematic working groups
- Adoption of a comprehensive action program covering political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy, maritime connectivity, energy, and marine environmental protection
Milestones achieved in regional cooperation
The previous ministerial sessions held in Rabat and New York alongside UN General Assembly meetings, as well as in Praia in May 2025, resulted in several joint declarations and action plans aimed at:
- Enhancing maritime security and connectivity among African Atlantic states
- Protecting marine resources and fisheries
- Accelerating energy transition efforts
- Promoting sustainable development across the region
Cotonou meeting to deepen strategic partnerships
The current session in Cotonou represents another crucial step in consolidating this partnership, with a focus on strengthening coordination among member states to foster integration and co-development throughout the African Atlantic space.
