Morocco

From the port of Tangiers one can look across the Straits of Gibraltar to the southern tip of Spain. At this point, only about 14 kilometres separate Africa from Europe. For Morocco, this singular geographical location is of particular importance. The country is a link between the two continents – politically, culturally and economically. In the 11th century, Arab Spain was controlled from Morocco; later, the country was occupied by various European powers, finally achieving independence only in 1956.

Today, Morocco's relations with the European Union are very good, and they are growing ever closer. In 1996, Morocco signed an Association Agreement with the EU; this came into force in 2000. It forms the basis for the progressive liberalisation of trade with the EU. A Euro-Mediterranean Free Trade Area will be established in 2010, and Morocco is due to join in 2012. This presents Morocco not only with great opportunities, but also with great challenges.

The country's economy is not yet in a position to take on the competition from Europe. The Kingdom is struggling with the problems of urbanisation and industrialisation. The gap between rich and poor continues to exist. For example, just under one fifth of the population still lacks access to clean drinking water. Yet the government is determined to focus on development, and has introduced reforms – especially improving the legal status of women – which are beginning to bear fruit. Its core commitment over the coming years is the country's National Initiative for Human Development, which aims to combat poverty and social exclusion.

Morocco possesses great economic growth potential, particularly in the supply sector to the IT, automotive and aeronautic industries, and in renewable energy. Morocco is ideally situated to harness renewable energy, especially wind power and solar energy.

Relations between Morocco and Germany

Morocco and Germany enjoy good relations, based on trust. Morocco is a key cooperation partner in the Middle East and North Africa region. Together with France, Spain, Saudi Arabia, Italy and China, Germany is one of Morocco's major trading partners, and German holidaymakers are important for the country's tourism industry.

Cooperation between the two countries is rooted in the overall strategy of BMZ for the region and is closely linked to the EU's development strategy for Morocco. It is focused above all on the use and management of water resources, environmental protection and climate change as well as sustainable economic development.

• Situation and cooperation

• Country information