King Mohammed VI of Morocco started Sunday a work and friendship visit in Côte d’Ivoire, where he will attend the Europe-Africa summit to be convened in Abidjan next Wednesday and Thursday (Nov. 29-30).
The participation of King Mohammed VI at the European Union-African Union summit in Abidjan was confirmed in a statement released Sunday by the Ministry of the Royal household, Protocol and chancellery, putting an end to speculations about the Moroccan King’s presence at the Summit because of the probable participation of the Polisario Front, which is claiming the independence of the Moroccan Sahara and which is not recognized by a majority of African States.
This will be the King’s first participation in an African Union major event since Morocco reintegrated its African family last January.
The African Union-European Union summit will provide an opportunity to strengthen political and economic ties between Africa and Europe, two continents with which Morocco has privileged relations.
Last May, in preparation for the summit, the European Commission and the High Representative/ Vice-President had set out the EU’s political priorities and concrete proposals for a stronger strategic partnership with Africa.
This revitalized framework for joint action, designed to build a stronger strategic partnership between Europe and Africa for more prosperity and stability in the two continents, presents innovative proposals in a number of key areas. These include peace and security, migration, job creation or energy, based on priorities defined by African countries and stepping up the existing fruitful cooperation between the two continents.
The 5th Africa-EU Summit will lay a specific focus on youth.
King Mohammed VI was welcomed upon arrival at the airport by Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara and the two heads of state, who are bound by excellent relations, are expected to hold a meeting Monday at the presidential palace in Abidjan.
