In a recent endeavour to bolster industrial and economic ties between Libya and Morocco, Ahmed Abuhisa, the Minister of Industry and Minerals, engaged in a significant discussion with the Head of the Moroccan Exporters Association. The dialogue, held at the Association’s headquarters in Casablanca, aimed at facilitating investments in both nations, thereby marking a new chapter in their bilateral relationship.
Libya and Morocco have a shared history of trade and economic cooperation. However, the scope has dramatically expanded over the years, with a now broader vision of nurturing investments, particularly in the industrial sector.
The meeting heralded by Abuhisa focused on the importance of bilateral trade and commercial partnerships between the two nations, emphasising the volume of trade concerning industrially produced goods. Moreover, it looked at opening investment opportunities in the industrial establishments of Libya and Morocco to investors, thereby creating a conducive environment for industrial growth.
Both nations have distinct industrial landscapes. Libya, rich in oil reserves, has traditionally been focused on the petroleum sector. However, post-2011, the nation has been exploring diversification, to reduce its dependency on oil. On the other hand, Morocco, with its well-established industries like phosphates, automotive, and textiles, presents a diverse industrial ecosystem. This difference in industrial focus provides a fertile ground for complementary collaboration.
The crucial takeaway from the meeting was the agreement on forming a specialised joint committee between the Ministry of Industry and Minerals, and the Moroccan Exporters Association. This committee is envisioned to streamline communication and connectivity between those interested in the industrial and investment domain, creating a structured platform for collaborative endeavours.
Furthermore, Abuhisa extended an invitation for a significant industrial forum in Libya, to be attended by businessmen from both sides, along with financial institutions and banks. Such a forum could serve as a melting pot of ideas and a platform for networking, fostering a climate of mutual understanding and cooperation.
The broader aim of such engagements is not only to augment trade, but to foster a climate conducive to investments, thereby contributing to the economic stability and growth of both nations. It’s a step towards a more collaborative North African region, which could, in the longer run, contribute to the overall economic stability of the continent.
Moreover, this initiative is in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aspires for a prosperous Africa, based on inclusive growth and sustainable development. It’s a small yet significant stride towards a more industrially integrated Africa, bridging gaps, and fostering economic ties.
This collaboration could also serve as a blueprint for other African nations aiming to enhance their industrial and economic ties. It sets a precedent of mutual cooperation and investment facilitation, which is essential in the current global economic scenario.
Furthermore, enhancing industrial collaboration could lead to technological exchanges, skill development, and job creation, thus having a multiplicative effect on the economies of Libya and Morocco. It could also pave the way for a stronger North African economic bloc, capable of negotiating better trade terms on the global stage.