The diplomatic ties between Morocco and the Philippines, celebrating half a century of partnership, have evolved into a robust framework spanning multiple strategic sectors, Ambassador Leslie Baja of the Philippines to Morocco emphasized.

In a recent statement, he underscored the depth of these relations, marked by high-level exchanges, numerous agreements, and strong interpersonal bonds that he described as ‘the bedrock for the next fifty years of collaboration.’

Economically, the envoy noted a significant uptick in bilateral trade over recent years, with commercial exchanges surging by nearly 50%. However, he cautioned that the current figures remain below the full potential both nations envision for their economic partnership.

Ambassador Baja highlighted Morocco’s strategic position as a gateway to Africa and Europe alongside the Philippines’ role as a key player in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). These complementary strengths, he argued, create fertile ground for expanded economic cooperation.

He specifically pointed to untapped opportunities in agro-industry, aeronautics, electronics, and textiles, while also noting the Philippines’ status as a major importer of Moroccan phosphate.

Turning to regional cooperation, the ambassador praised the 2023 Morocco-ASEAN sectoral partnership agreement, calling it a catalyst for broader collaboration at both bilateral and regional levels.

Discussing Morocco’s Atlantic Initiative to provide Sahelian states with Atlantic access, Baja compared its potential impact to the ASEAN model, stressing its benefits for economic, political, and social integration across Africa. ‘Regional integration will undoubtedly strengthen Africa economically and politically, fostering stability, resilience, and cultural vitality,’ he remarked.

On the Western Sahara issue, the ambassador reiterated the Philippines’ support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Southern Provinces, first expressed during the 2022 visit of the Philippine Foreign Minister. He described the Moroccan initiative as ‘a solid foundation’ for resolving the dispute and hailed UN Security Council Resolution 2797 as a ‘game changer’ in the process.

Baja also announced the launch of a book chronicling the 50-year history of Morocco-Philippines relations, set for release this week. The publication aims to not only document historical milestones but also celebrate the human connections that have cemented ties between the two peoples.

‘This work goes beyond historical facts,’ he stated. ‘It captures the spirit of cooperation that has brought our nations closer together over decades.’