Morocco’s Maritime Ambition: Bridging Europe, Africa, and Beyond through Strategic Coastal Development – Morocco holds a unique position among nations with access to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, a trait it shares with only a few countries like France and Spain in Europe. This strategic geographic setting not only places Morocco at the crossroads of Europe and Africa but also gives it a significant edge in maritime economics. The country has over 500 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline and more than 3,000 kilometers along the Atlantic, hosting major population centers, high demographic densities, and crucial communication infrastructure that supports key economic activities.
The Moroccan kingdom is increasingly focusing on the maritime economy, as highlighted by King Mohammed VI during his Green March speech on November 6, 2023
He articulated a strategic shift towards exploiting the Atlantic façade, emphasizing its importance for complete access to Africa and as a gateway to the Americas. This strategic reorientation includes enhancing the national coastline, particularly the Atlantic front of the Moroccan Sahara, and structuring this space with an African scope.
Morocco aims to tap into the largely untapped potential of its Atlantic façade, rich in fisheries resources and opportunities for significant French corporations. The development of the Dakhla Atlantic port, part of the 2030 port strategy initiated by the Ministry of Equipment and Transport since November 6, 2015, is set to bolster container ship services and supply the regional economy with industrial inputs, energy, and consumer goods. This initiative is linked to broader goals, such as the revival of the Atlantic States of Africa Process (PEAA) and leveraging the Free Trade Agreement with the United States, aiming for enhanced trade from the Cape of Good Hope to Cape Spartel.
However, the Atlantic African coast faces numerous security challenges, including piracy, terrorism, illegal fishing, and trafficking, necessitating increased military projection capabilities. The development of maritime infrastructure and the strengthening of the Royal Navy fleet are vital for this south-south development effort, offering considerable economic opportunities for Europe, particularly France.
Morocco’s Atlantic project is seen as a means to integrate and develop the Sahel region, often viewed as peripheral despite its strategic importance. By building a national merchant fleet, Morocco aims to capitalize on the fact that, although 80% of global trade is conducted by sea, Africa accounts for only 6% of this traffic, presenting significant opportunities for shipowners and businesses.
In summary, Morocco’s strategic geographical location, with access to both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, positions it as a key player in maritime economics and regional development. The country’s initiatives, including the development of the Dakhla Atlantic port and its engagement in African maritime strategy, underscore its commitment to leveraging its coastlines for economic growth, security, and integration, especially with the Sahel region.
Morocco’s Maritime Ambition: Bridging Europe, Africa, and Beyond through Strategic Coastal Development
