The British government reaffirmed on Wednesday its commitment to deepening its partnership with Morocco, hailing the Kingdom as a "trusted partner."
The statement was delivered by Ben Coleman, the United Kingdom’s Trade Envoy to Morocco and West Africa, during the 8th "Morocco Capital Markets Days" conference, held in the City of London—the country’s financial district.
Coleman welcomed the convening of this event, emphasizing its role in reinforcing the financial ties between the British and Moroccan financial markets.
This conference comes at a time when vast opportunities are being offered for developing economic and trade relations between the UK and Morocco, two countries bound by a relationship that dates back more than 8 centuries.
"As Trade Envoy, I am determined to play a role in helping strengthen investments and ensuring that Morocco and the UK are able to seize the opportunities on offer," Coleman said before an audience of diplomats, government officials, and financial professionals.
The official emphasized what he described as the special importance the British government attaches to relations with Morocco, aiming to build on the longstanding ties between the two kingdoms to elevate their partnership.
The two countries signed their first trade agreement in 1721, over three centuries ago, Coleman recalled, noting that since then, trade between Morocco and the UK has continued to grow.
For the UK official, the positive development of economic and trade exchanges between the two countries is a sign of trust and a reflection of shared ambition. He expressed confidence that both nations have all the potential to move forward.
"Our economies are highly complementary,” he noted. "Morocco Capital Markets Days" will explore ways to financially support the development of economic relations between the two countries, he added.
Coleman also praised Morocco’s notable strides in infrastructure development, citing the expansion of the high-speed rail line (LGV) as a key example of transformative projects positioning the Kingdom for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
These projects testify to Morocco’s vision and determination, said the British official, expressing the United Kingdom’s willingness to take part in the wave of progress the Kingdom is experiencing.
The British Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy emphasized the importance of the partnership with Morocco in West Africa and beyond. "Morocco is a tremendous gateway to Africa."
He also underlined the crucial role the business community has to play in bringing to life a Moroccan-British partnership that matches the aspirations and potential of both countries.
The 8th edition of the Morocco Capital Markets Days will continue until Friday in the British capital. More than 34 Moroccan listed companies and a wide range of capital market players engage with key stakeholders in the City and forge partnerships.
This year’s edition is part of the Morocco Business Weeks, held in London from April 28 to May 9, with the aim of highlighting Morocco’s economic potential and strengthening cooperation with the United Kingdom.
Through this event, the Casablanca Stock Exchange reaffirms its commitment to connecting the Moroccan capital market with major international financial centers and enhancing Morocco’s appeal to foreign investors.
