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The Middle East and North Africa
From the port of Tangier 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, Morocco controlled Arab Spain; later, the country was itself 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. An Association Agreement between Morocco and the EU has been in force since 2000. It forms the basis for the gradual liberalisation of trade with the EU. In 2008, the EU accorded Morocco what it calls “statut avancé”, opening the way for even closer political and economic association. In 2012, the country is due to join the Euro-Mediterranean free trade area. This will present 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 problems brought about by urbanisation and industrialisation. The gap between rich and poor is huge. For example, around a fifth of the population still lacks access to clean drinking water. Yet the government is focusing on development, and has introduced reforms – amongst others to improve the legal status of women – which are beginning to bear fruit. The key focus for the next few years will be on the implementation of the country’s National Initiative for Human Development (Initiative Nationale pour le Développement Humain, INDH), which is aimed at combating poverty and social exclusion.
Relations between Morocco and Germany
Morocco and Germany enjoy good relations, based on trust. Morocco is a key partner in Germany’s cooperation with the Middle East and North Africa region. Germany is one of Morocco’s most important trade partners, and German holidaymakers make a significant contribution to the country’s tourist industry.
Moroccan-German development cooperation is embedded in the BMZ’s overall strategy for the region, and is closely linked to the European Union’s development strategy for Morocco. Cooperation between the two countries is concentrated above all on the use and management of water resources, environmental protection and climate change measures, and sustainable economic development.
German Embassy

German Embassy in Morocco
7, Zankat Madnine
B.P. 235
10 000 Rabat
Phone: +212 / 537 / 21 86 00
Fax: +212 / 537 / 70 68 51






