The Kingdom of Morocco and The Gambia have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation as Morocco’s Chargé d’Affaires in Banjul, Ahmed Belhadj, marked his farewell after completing four years of diplomatic service in the country.

Speaking during a reception held in Banjul to commemorate the 27th anniversary of the accession of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to the Moroccan throne, Ambassador Belhadj highlighted the deepening ties between the two nations, describing the relationship as one built on solidarity, mutual respect and shared aspirations.

He said Morocco’s partnership with The Gambia continues to expand across key areas including trade, education, agriculture, training, investment and human development.
“Since His Majesty’s accession, Morocco has embarked on an era of far-reaching reforms and accelerated modernisation while preserving its rich cultural diversity,” Ambassador Belhadj said.

He highlighted Morocco’s economic transformation, noting progress in sectors such as automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, agriculture, tourism and digital transformation, while also pointing to major infrastructure developments that have strengthened the country’s position as a regional economic hub.

The Ambassador also underscored Morocco’s role in South-South cooperation, saying thousands of African students continue to benefit from educational and vocational training opportunities in the Kingdom.

He cited the Morocco-Nigeria Atlantic Gas Pipeline project as a major regional initiative expected to benefit several African countries, including The Gambia, by improving energy access and promoting economic integration.

On relations with The Gambia, Ambassador Belhadj described the partnership between the two countries as one of Morocco’s strongest in Africa, noting cooperation within regional and international platforms including the African Union and ECOWAS.

“The relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of The Gambia stand today as one of the strongest and most solid partnerships in our African diplomacy,” he said.

Representing the Gambian government, Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Professor Pierre Gomez, conveyed President Adama Barrow’s congratulations to King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government and people on the occasion of Throne Day.

Professor Gomez said Morocco remains one of The Gambia’s closest partners, with relations built on decades of trust, shared interests and mutual respect.

He highlighted several areas of cooperation, including scholarships, technical training, trade, investment, defence, tourism, culture and education.

The Minister revealed that Morocco awards more than 120 scholarships annually to Gambian students, describing the support as a significant contribution to developing the country’s human capital.

“Over 120 scholarships per annum. This demonstrates the friendship that continues to grow stronger,” Professor Gomez said.

He also acknowledged Morocco’s support during The Gambia’s hosting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Summit in Banjul and praised the Kingdom’s contributions to regional stability, climate action and South-South cooperation.

The reception brought together government officials, diplomats, religious leaders, members of the diplomatic community and representatives from regional and international organisations.

As he concluded his mission in The Gambia, Ambassador Belhadj expressed gratitude to the Gambian authorities and citizens for their hospitality and support, saying the country had become a second home to him.

He renewed his commitment to the continued strengthening of the friendship between Morocco and The Gambia, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI and President Adama Barrow.

By Adama Makasuba