- A strategic partner for Europe
- Transport investment plan details
- Five decades of financial backing
The European Investment Bank (BEI) president Nadia Calviño wrapped up her official visit to Morocco by emphasizing the country’s pivotal role as a connection point between Africa and Europe. This visit marked the 21st anniversary of the BEI’s permanent presence in the North African nation.
A strategic partner for Europe
During her final meeting in Rabat, Ms. Calviño sat down with Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita to discuss ongoing cooperation between the BEI and the Moroccan government. The BEI president reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Morocco’s sustainable growth trajectory, describing the country as a “strategic partner for Europe”.
“Morocco stands as a pillar of stability, shared security, and prosperity for both Africa and Europe,” stated Calviño. Her visit comes as part of broader efforts to strengthen the strategic partnership between the BEI and Morocco.
Transport investment plan details
Ms. Calviño also held discussions with Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance Nadia Fettah regarding the European bank’s investment plans for the country. During her visit, she signed agreements totaling €365 million, which combine loans and grants specifically targeted at reinforcing Morocco’s transport infrastructure and climate resilience.
The transport-focused funding includes €15 million in EU grants dedicated to climate adaptation measures for the national railway network, to be managed by the Moroccan National Railways Office, and €50 million in BEI loans. The remaining €300 million will support improved resilience and safety of the country’s highway system through the National Highways Company.
These initiatives align with the BEI’s broader strategy to help partner countries develop safer and more sustainable transportation networks.
Five decades of financial backing
Over nearly five decades of partnership with Morocco, the BEI has mobilized over €12 billion to support various sectors including SMEs, renewable energy, healthcare, water management, and education.
During her visit, Ms. Calviño made a symbolic stop at a public school in Rabat to observe a musical performance by students as part of the “Morocco 88” project. This extracurricular music club initiative, supported by Morocco’s Ministry of National Education and the BEI, aims to enhance education, social cohesion, and youth development.
The BEI president also highlighted Morocco’s economic reforms under King Mohammed VI, which have strengthened the country’s macroeconomic and financial framework. These reforms have bolstered international investor confidence and enabled the mobilization of substantial investment flows.
