Morocco and ASEAN seek stronger cooperation through concrete initiatives

Morocco and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are seeking to deepen their partnership by moving toward practical cooperation in trade, investment and development.

The latest push came in Jakarta during a meeting between ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn and Morocco’s Ambassador to ASEAN, Redouane Houssaini. Houssaini presented his Letter of Credence at the ASEAN Secretariat, where Kao welcomed his appointment and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to strengthening the ASEAN-Morocco Sectoral Dialogue Partnership.

Kao called for greater Moroccan engagement with ASEAN’s sectoral bodies. The objective is to turn the institutional framework established between the two sides into projects that deliver tangible and mutual benefits.

Houssaini said Morocco could serve as a link between Southeast Asia and Africa, drawing on its geographic position, infrastructure and economic ties across the African continent. He pointed to opportunities for triangular cooperation involving ASEAN, Morocco and African countries, particularly in trade, investment and development.

The discussions also reflected shared principles, including dialogue, moderation, respect for state sovereignty and the peaceful settlement of disputes. These principles are also reflected in Morocco’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia in 2016.

Morocco became an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner in September 2023, becoming the first North African country to obtain the status. The partnership was institutionalized through a joint sectoral cooperation committee, while a practical cooperation framework for 2024 to 2028 was adopted in April 2024.

The appointment of Houssaini adds a new diplomatic dimension to the relationship. Morocco has maintained an ambassador accredited to ASEAN since 2010. Houssaini’s broader diplomatic activity in Jakarta has also included efforts to expand Morocco’s economic and trade links with Indonesia and Southeast Asia.