In a landmark diplomatic milestone, the Kingdom of Morocco and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland have entered an Enhanced Strategic Partnership, marking a new era of deepening political, economic, security, and cultural cooperation. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita, formally received the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, The Rt Hon David Lammy MP, in Rabat on June 1, 2025. Together, they co-chaired the 5th session of the Morocco-UK Strategic Dialogue, culminating in the signing of a historic series of agreements designed to drive mutual growth and security.
An Alliance Rooted in Shared History and Values
Morocco and the UK share one of the oldest diplomatic relationships in the world, stretching back over 800 years. From the early contacts of the 13th century to the present day, ties between Moroccan and British sovereigns have remained a resilient cornerstone of this alliance. Their Majesties King Mohammed VI and King Charles III have carried forward this tradition, providing steady leadership and fostering an ambitious, forward-looking strategic partnership. Both nations stand united by shared values, a commitment to peace, sovereignty, and respect for the international rules-based order.
A Bold Vision for a Shared Future
Building on centuries of cooperation, Bourita and Lammy announced a comprehensive commitment to deepen collaboration across political, diplomatic, security, economic, cultural, and societal dimensions. This Enhanced Strategic Partnership focuses on joint action in key global challenges — from conflict resolution and green growth to human rights and socio-economic development.
Western Sahara: UK Endorses Morocco’s Autonomy Plan
The UK recognized the central importance of the Western Sahara issue for Morocco, expressing support for the UN-led process and viewing Morocco’s 2007 autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable, and pragmatic framework for a durable resolution. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Britain committed to actively supporting renewed negotiations, underscoring the urgency of advancing this long-stalled process for the stability of North Africa and beyond.
Strengthening Collective Security
Security and defence took centre stage in the partnership talks. Both countries pledged closer cooperation on counter-terrorism, cyber threats, drone risks, AI misuse, and the security of critical infrastructure. Morocco’s recent election as Interpol Vice-President for Africa was hailed as a testament to its growing role in international security. The two Atlantic nations also committed to deepening maritime collaboration, expanding defence industry cooperation, and pursuing joint investments in military capabilities.
Expanding Trade and Economic Opportunities
Bilateral trade has surged, doubling since the 2021 UK-Morocco Association Agreement to reach £4.2 billion in 2024. The ministers praised this momentum and set ambitious goals for further growth, particularly in public procurement, intellectual property protection, agricultural market access, and rules of origin. A new Morocco Business Alliance will be created to unlock private sector investment, while the UK’s Export Finance commitment of £5 billion will back projects across Morocco — including in Western Sahara, subject to due diligence.
2030 FIFA World Cup: A Shared Mission
The UK congratulated Morocco on its successful bid to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup and pledged technical support and commercial collaboration, especially on critical infrastructure projects that will benefit from British expertise.
Driving Green Growth and Climate Action
Both countries reaffirmed their joint commitment to sustainable energy, water management, and climate resilience. Morocco’s leadership in renewable energy was highlighted, with plans to leverage UK-backed initiatives like the Energy Transition Council and Powering Past Coal Alliance. A new partnership between the UK Met Office and Morocco’s Meteorological Office will enhance climate and environmental services.
Transforming Healthcare and Education
Morocco’s healthcare expansion efforts received a major boost, with agreements to strengthen partnerships across hospital construction, medical equipment supply, and academic collaboration. The UK welcomed Morocco’s decision to automatically recognize UK higher education qualifications, a move that will expand opportunities for Moroccan students and facilitate the establishment of British campuses in Morocco.
People-to-People Connections and Cultural Exchange
The ministers celebrated record levels of Moroccan and British visitors in both directions, pledging to improve visa processes and expand cultural, sports, and youth exchanges. Friendly football matches, cultural festivals, and new artistic spaces will continue to nurture grassroots connections.
Regional and Global Cooperation
Beyond bilateral matters, Morocco and the UK agreed to deepen cooperation on African development, particularly supporting Morocco’s Atlantic African States Process and the Royal Initiative to give Sahel countries Atlantic access. Both parties committed to a holistic response to regional security threats, emphasizing the need for development, trade, and civilian protection alongside military measures. The UK also praised King Mohammed VI’s leadership as Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee and reaffirmed shared support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Jerusalem as a shared capital.
Signed Agreements and Future Commitments
In Rabat, several agreements were formalized, including partnerships on:
- Infrastructure for the 2030 FIFA World Cup
- Water and ports cooperation
- Sustainable urban development
- Healthcare system transformation
- Scientific research and higher education
- Defence industry investments
- Climate and meteorological collaboration
Additional agreements are set to be signed in the coming days, particularly in defence sector partnerships, underlining the rapid acceleration of this enhanced alliance.
A Historic Turning Point
The Enhanced Strategic Partnership between Morocco and the United Kingdom signals a transformative chapter in the longstanding alliance between these two kingdoms. With a bold agenda spanning security, trade, climate, healthcare, education, and cultural diplomacy, the agreements reached on June 1, 2025, aim to deliver tangible benefits for both Moroccan and British citizens — and to position the two nations as co-architects of stability and progress on the global stage.
