Italy Eyes Morocco as Key Partner in African Food Security

Italy-Morocco diplomatic relations, which will mark their 200th anniversary in 2025, have expanded in recent years to include issues ranging from economic and cultural cooperation to regional security.

Italy is increasingly viewing Morocco as a strategic partner in Africa, particularly in agriculture and food security, Italian Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida emphasized on Friday.

Speaking to reporters in Rabat, Lollobrigida highlighted the deep-rooted historical ties between the two nations, noting the significant contribution of the Moroccan community residing in Italy. He emphasized on how this vibrant diaspora enriches Italian society and economy.

The minister’s visit coincided with the 12th ministerial meeting of the International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM).

This platform, he noted, provides an ideal setting for exploring collaborative opportunities in sustainable agriculture and food security.

“Italy considers Morocco a partner of choice, given the depth of our bilateral relations,” Lollobrigida stated. He emphasized the growing importance of this partnership, especially as Africa seeks to bolster its food self-sufficiency and enhance the value-added of its agricultural production.

Water resource management emerged as a key topic of discussion. Lollobrigida acknowledged the shared challenges posed by climate change and dwindling water resources, particularly in the Mediterranean region.

He expressed Italy’s commitment to working closely with Morocco to develop innovative solutions and sustainable agricultural practices to address these issues.

During the bilateral meeting with Moroccan Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari, the two officials delved into various areas of cooperation, including sustainable agriculture, food security, and natural resource management.

Italy-Morocco diplomatic ties, which will mark 200 years in 2025, have expanded in recent years to address issues ranging from economic and cultural cooperation to regional security.

Italy remains one of Morocco’s top trading partners, with nearly 200 Italian companies established in the country across diverse sectors.

The nations’ robust partnership extends beyond the economic realm, drawing upon shared cultural values and the contributions of both communities on either side of the Mediterranean.