Morocco takes GTMO 5+5 presidency with focus on regional transport integration

Morocco has assumed the presidency of the GTMO 5+5 for the 2026-2028 period, taking over from Malta at the conclusion of the group’s 11th ministerial conference held in Rabat.

The GTMO 5+5 brings together ten countries from both shores of the western Mediterranean to coordinate policies and initiatives related to transport, logistics, and mobility. Morocco succeeds Malta, which had chaired the organization since 2021.

The transition comes as Morocco continues to strengthen its transport infrastructure and consolidate its role as a strategic link between Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean basin. During the conference, Minister of Transport and Logistics Abdessamad Kayouh described the new mandate as both an honor and a responsibility. He said Morocco intends to use its presidency to deepen cooperation among member states and reinforce the group’s role as a platform for dialogue and coordination in the transport sector.

A central objective of the Moroccan presidency will be the development of an integrated multimodal transport network across the western Mediterranean. Authorities also plan to advance the Trans-Maghreb Multimodal Corridor, which is expected to facilitate trade flows and support greater regional economic integration.

Morocco’s agenda also includes promoting transport systems that can better withstand the effects of climate change. The country aims to support the energy transition and accelerate efforts to decarbonize the transport sector. Digital transformation will represent another major priority, with plans to modernize transport infrastructure and mobility services through new technologies.

In addition, Morocco intends to encourage investment in human capital and strengthen cooperation with international organizations and financial institutions involved in transport and infrastructure development.

The ministerial conference gathered transport ministers, heads of delegations, and representatives of regional and international partner organizations. Participants commended Morocco’s contribution to regional dialogue and noted the country’s advances in transport infrastructure, multimodal connectivity, and integration into regional value chains.

The new presidency coincides with ongoing efforts to modernize Morocco’s transport sector. National authorities continue to implement projects designed to improve logistics performance, expand sustainable mobility solutions, and strengthen connections between ports, road networks, rail infrastructure, and industrial zones.

At the end of the conference, member states expressed confidence in Morocco’s ability to lead the organization and advance a common vision for transport cooperation, economic development, and stronger integration throughout the western Mediterranean region.