Argentina seeks Morocco’s backing for un secretary-general bid

The Argentine government has formally requested Morocco’s support for the candidacy of Rafael Grossi to succeed António Guterres as the next United Nations Secretary-General. This diplomatic initiative was launched during the eighth meeting of the joint commission and the sixth session of political consultations between Argentina and Morocco, held on June 11 in Buenos Aires.

Under President Javier Milei’s administration, Argentina aims to position Grossi—currently the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—as a highly qualified candidate for the UN’s top role. The Argentine Foreign Ministry’s report highlights that Morocco’s endorsement carries significant weight, given the kingdom’s strong diplomatic influence across Africa and multilateral forums, extending beyond bilateral relations.

The talks were co-chaired by Roberto Salafia, Argentina’s Undersecretary for International Economic Negotiations and Integration, and Juan Manuel Navarro, Undersecretary for Foreign Policy. Morocco’s delegation was led by Fouad Yazourh, Director General of International Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The discussions covered bilateral relations, pressing global issues, and potential areas for expanded cooperation.

Argentina has framed Grossi’s candidacy as «a cornerstone of its multilateral diplomacy, backed by a leader experienced in navigating international crises, fostering dialogue among major powers, and leveraging mechanisms within global organizations.» Securing Morocco’s support is a strategic move, as the UN Secretary-General selection process requires a Security Council recommendation followed by a General Assembly vote. A Moroccan endorsement could significantly bolster Grossi’s prospects in African voting blocs.

Morocco’s strategic role in the UN leadership race

Since assuming the IAEA’s leadership in 2019, Rafael Grossi has built an international reputation for his oversight of nuclear facilities in conflict zones, negotiations on Iran’s atomic program, and efforts to enhance safety at Ukrainian nuclear plants amid the Russia-Ukraine war. Argentina officially announced its 2025 candidacy for Grossi, launching a global campaign to secure endorsements from governments across multiple regions.

The Argentine delegation views Morocco as a pivotal ally due to its active involvement in international institutions, extensive network across Africa, and diplomatic engagement with key global decision-makers. As one diplomat noted, «Morocco’s support could elevate Grossi’s credibility in Africa and facilitate alliances with states that hold decisive influence in both the Security Council and the General Assembly.»

Several candidates from Latin America and Africa are vying for the position, including former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, supported by Brazil; Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) from Costa Rica; María Fernanda Espinosa of Ecuador; and former Senegalese President Macky Sall. Argentina’s bid must build support beyond its regional neighbors, making Morocco a crucial partner in this broader strategy.

Argentina emphasizes Grossi’s technical and political expertise, honed during his tenure at the IAEA, where he navigated high-stakes negotiations on nuclear proliferation, safety, and armed conflicts. Buenos Aires positions him as «a diplomat capable of engaging with global powers, maintaining dialogue in times of crisis, and restoring the UN’s political influence.»

Morocco’s strategic value in this campaign stems from its leadership in the Maghreb, strong ties with African nations, active role in multilateral organizations, and partnerships with Europe, the United States, and Southern Hemisphere powers. Rabat’s endorsement would provide Argentina with a vital political ally in a region where bloc voting could shape the outcome.

Economic ties reach record highs ahead of the talks

The Buenos Aires consultations also focused on deepening economic collaboration. Bilateral trade between Argentina and Morocco hit a historic $1.092 billion in 2025, making Morocco Argentina’s second-largest African trading partner. Delegations explored ways to increase exports of higher-value products and expand cooperation in new sectors.

Key discussion areas included agriculture, energy, healthcare, tourism, food safety standards, and aviation links. Officials stressed «the need to strengthen trade structures, align regulatory frameworks, and launch joint initiatives in industries where both economies complement each other.»

For Argentina, Morocco serves as both a vital market and a gateway to Africa, while also offering a platform for political collaboration. The kingdom’s automotive, fertilizer, aerospace, and textile industries have integrated into regional supply chains, creating opportunities for trade agreements, technical partnerships, and Argentine companies’ expansion across the continent.

Morocco, in turn, views Argentina as a critical supplier of agricultural products and a bridge to South America. Discussions addressed sanitary standards for food exports, energy cooperation, and direct air links to reduce trade and diplomatic distances between the regions.

Argentine delegates highlighted that «the relationship with Morocco has evolved into a platform for political coordination on global governance, South-South cooperation, and amplifying the voices of developing nations in international institutions.»