Bilateral relations between Morocco and the Philippines rest on a robust foundation ripe for expansion across multiple strategic sectors, as emphasized by Philippine Ambassador to Rabat Leslie Baja. He celebrated the 50 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations, marked last year.

In an exclusive conversation, Ambassador Baja underscored the rich trajectory of exchanges, marked by high-level visits, numerous agreements, and the strengthening of human connections he described as ‘the cornerstone for the next 50 years of cooperation.’

The diplomat pointed to a remarkable rise in bilateral trade over recent years, with a nearly 50% surge in exchanges, though he acknowledged that current volumes fall short of the ambitions both countries hold.

Highlighting the complementary strengths of Morocco—seen as a gateway to Africa and Europe—and the Philippines, an active member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), he stressed the potential for enhanced economic collaboration. Sectors like agro-industry, aeronautics, electronics, and textiles were cited as prime areas for growth, with the Philippines standing out as a key importer of Moroccan phosphate.

Turning to regional cooperation, Ambassador Baja praised the 2023 Morocco-ASEAN sectoral partnership agreement, calling it a gateway to expanded collaboration at both bilateral and regional levels.

Discussing the Royal Atlantic Initiative aimed at facilitating Sahel states’ access to the Atlantic Ocean, he described it as a catalyst for African regional integration, drawing parallels with the ASEAN model and its positive economic, political, and social outcomes. ‘Regional integration will undoubtedly bolster Africa’s economic and political stability, fostering resilience and cultural vitality across the continent,’ he remarked.

On Morocco’s autonomy plan for its Southern Provinces, Ambassador Baja recounted the Philippines’ affirmation during a 2022 visit by the Philippine Foreign Minister, calling the initiative ‘a solid foundation’ for resolving the dispute. He hailed UN Security Council Resolution 2797 as a ‘game changer’ in this context, expressing confidence in the political process moving forward.

The ambassador also reiterated the Philippines’ backing for the UN-led efforts to achieve a definitive solution to the issue.

Additionally, Ambassador Baja announced the upcoming launch of a book chronicling the history of Moroccan-Philippine relations. The publication, he explained, aims to trace half a century of collaboration while spotlighting the contributions of Moroccans and Filipinos in deepening ties between the two nations. ‘This work goes beyond historical facts; it is a testament to the human bonds that have cemented relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of the Philippines,’ he noted.