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GENERAL SUMMARY
25 OCTOBER 2015…………………………....…03-11
26 OCTOBER 2015………………………………..12-31
27 OCTOBER 2015……………………………….32-43
28 OCTOBER 2015……………………………….44-65
29 OCTOBER 2015……………………………….65-76
3
Summary
Source Title Page
25-10-2015
Morocco The Ideal Platform For
India-Africa Economic And Trade
Cooperation – OpEd
32-34
25-10-2015
Morocco’s King to attend India-
Africa summit 2015
35-36
25-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco King Arrives in Delhi
for Summit
37
25-10-2015
King Mohammed VI Arrives in New
Delhi For India-Africa Forum Summit
38
25-10-2015
Moroccan king arrives Sunday, first
of African leaders for the Summit
41
4
25-10-2015
Morocco The Ideal Platform For India-Africa Economic And Trade Cooperation –
OpEd
The Third India Africa Summit will take place in New Delhi between October 26-30. Over 50
African countries are expected to participate with most of them represented by their heads of
state or government.
This will be India‘s most important and extensive outreach and will set the stage for even
more economic and political interaction between India and Africa. A rapidly growing India
needs a platform in Africa to reach out to interesting markets and venues to establish strong
economic and trade partnerships.
Morocco could be the ideal gateway in Africa due to its close and strong relations that the
north African kingdom enjoys in the African continent.
King Mohammed‘s frequent trips in Africa were greeted with elation and many Moroccan and
African observers assumed, that those royal frequent trips in Africa translate into a robust and
activist Morocco Africa policy.
Those expectations were largely accurate when King ordered the launching of humanitarian
and medical assistance to many Sub Saharan countries and urged both the Moroccan
government and the private sector to engage more in Africa in stepping up their commercial
and diplomatic ties.
Governance, Africa‘s youth, and women‘s empowerment, standard fare in Morocco‘s Africa
repertoire. Africa‘s need for strong institutions rather than strong men in a honest effort to
reach out to up-and-coming African leaders and entrepreneurs through a series of high-level
forums; and promoting health and empowerment for women and girls.
But the major objective in those royal visits was the emphasis on bolstering Morocco.-Africa
political, economic commercial and spiritual engagement. it speaks to Africa‘s changing
economic landscape, where opportunities—and competition—for investment are expanding,
and where traditional donor-recipient relations are giving way to more mature partnerships.
5
The continent has made impressive economic progress in the last decade, with the
International Monetary Fund forecasting average real GDP growth in sub-Saharan Africa at
5.4 percent this year and 5.7 percent in 2014. High commodity prices—and high demand from
China and others for mineral and energy resources—have contributed to this growth, and new
oil and natural gas finds are setting the continent up for a hydrocarbon boom that will draw
big new investments going forward. But sectors outside the extractive industries—
telecommunications, transportation, construction, wholesale and retail, financial services—
have played a major role as well, as has a growing consumer class. Other countries have
seized the opportunity.
The Moroccan private sector has done much to encourage Moroccan investors to seek
investment opportuntiites in Africa. In a win-win partnership Morocco conveys to African
governments and citizens the comparative advantage of Moroccan private-sector investment
versus other international investors—in terms of quality, transparency, technology and
knowledge transfer, training, and systems development. And third, Morocco will seek to
harness the capacities of its government agencies and private-sector partners to help improve
the investment climate in African states. This will include technical assistance to strengthen
government and institutional capacity and an expected announcement to partner in various
fileds especially in infrastructure which has been a long-standing impediment to Africa‘s
economic and industrial growth.
As with past King‘s trips to Africa, the tone of the visit always upbeats, focusing on
opportunities and successes. Equally important objective of those trips aimed to build and
sustain Morocco‘s positive influence and partnership with African governments and publics.
Violent extremist organizations have increased both in their geographic reach and their
capacity to mount attacks. The epicenter has been Mali where extremist militia, some with
links to al Qaeda seized two-thirds of the country until they were pushed back by French
troops. Morocco has repeatedly voiced its concern that the threat could mushroom if groups
such as al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb turn the whole region of Sub Saharan Africa into a
sfe haven.
Across this region, the winds of change bring both promise and peril. So King Mohammed‘s
visits are seen as an opportunity, to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between Morocco and
other African nations, to re-state Morocco‘s unwavering commitment to Africa‘s security and
boost its economy.
6
The presidents of African countries that King Mohammed visited unanimously confirmed the
need for a strategic alliance that has become greater than ever amid unpredictable changes in
Africa. Morocco, through those royal visits, continues to seek peace, security and prosperity
in the African continent.
In an unstable and uncertain sub-Saharan Africa the need for a strong alliance is greater than
ever. It is the key to thwarting dangers to advancing peace. It‘s the key to achieve a stable and
secure and prosperous Africa that the Africans yearn for all and with all their hearts.
This unique Moroccan strategy was on display during the king‘s tow-country jaunt. Projects
are underway, spearheaded by Morocco, to electrify 550 villages along the Senegal River and
bring affordable medicine to fight cholera, malaria, and diarrhea diseases to Africa‘s poorest
countries. At the same time, the king held brass tacks talks on boosting security cooperation—
and in Senegal, the monarch convened a gathering of moderate Islamic leaders to talk about
strengthening their role in providing an alternative to extremist ideologies. This royal visit
confirms morocco‘s keen interest to promote peace and prosperity in the African continent.
In fact, since his rise to the throne in 1999, King Mohammed has put the African continent
among his top foreign policy agenda. He has visited many African countries launching socio-
economic projects that seek to promote social development of Africans and at the same time
offering opportunities for Africans to learn from Moroccan know-how to promote their
economies.
Morocco, as has been stated by many international economic institutions, could become an
economic and trade platform for African countries to reach out to Europe, the United States
and Asia. Europe, America and Asia‘s strong economic, political, and security ties to
Morocco and strong economic, political, and security interests in greater Africa need to come
together. It can be an economic boom at a time when a windfall is badly needed, and a boost
to global security at a time when concerns about terror on the African continent are growing.
Morocco is thus a great economic opportunity for India.
7
25-10-2015
Morocco’s King to attend India-Africa summit 2015
King Mohammed VI of Morocco is expected in New Delhi to take part in the third India-
Africa Summit scheduled for this October 26 to 29.
The royal trip to India, the third since King Mohammed VI came to power in 1999, translates
the importance Morocco attaches to strengthening its relations with the Asian country. It also
mirrors the keen interest Morocco grants to the development of the continent and its resolve to
spare no effort to boost African countries‘ partnership, at the bilateral and multilateral levels,
at the regional and international levels.King Mohammed VI who is aware that Africa and
India are facing the same challenges, mainly regarding the scourge of underdevelopment and
the ills it entails (poverty, disease, illiteracy…) and are having the same development goals is
convinced that a strong partnership between the African continent and the Indian sub-
continent will be beneficial to the two sides.
The third edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS,) held under the topic
―Reinvigorated Partnership, Shared Vision‖ will provide a high level political platform to the
African heads of State and Government and the Indian government to debate their common
problems. They will also share their respective countries‘ experience in addressing these
problems and draw a roadmap for their partnership, mainly in the economic, trade and
technology realms, the aim being to join efforts to promote the socio-economic development
of all their people.
In view of the international juncture, the New Delhi Summit will also debate cooperation in
the field of security and the fight against terrorism, a plague that is sparing no country and no
community in the world.
African-Indian economic and trade relations have been steadily growing since the launch in
1964 of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Program, designed as a
bilateral program of assistance of the Indian Government.Under the program, many African
countries benefited from the expertise developed by India in the industrial, technical, and
research fields. India has also capitalized on the significant increase of its trade with the
8
African continent. Trade exchanges have thus gone up over the last 15 years from just $3
billion in 2000 to about 70 billion in 2014.
At the bilateral level, Moroccan-Indian trade relations have also scored a steady growth. In
2014, trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India‘s exports to Morocco
amounting to $500.5 million while imports were valued at $855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6% compared to the previous year while
Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2%.The balance of trade is quasi
always in favor of Morocco because of India‘s imports of phosphoric acid and rock
phosphate.
9
25-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco King Arrives in Delhi for Summit
Morocco King Mohammed VI was the first head of state to arrive on Sunday to participate in
the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit that begins on Monday.
He was received by Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Balyan.
"The first head of state arrives. King of Morocco Mohammed VI in Delhi, received by
Minister Sanjeev Balyan," said Vikas Swarup, spokesperson of the ministry of External
Affairs in a tweet.
The summit will witness a record participation of all 54 countries of the African continent,
most of them represented by their heads of state or government.
This is perhaps the only time all 54 African countries are coming together for such a meeting
outside the continent.
The agenda includes a meeting of senior officials on October 26, meeting of foreign ministers
on October 27 and the summit on October 29. There will also be bilateral meetings, while
President Pranab Mukherjee will host a grand banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the
evening of October 29.
The summit is expected to address key challenges facing participating countries, including
food, health and environment, as well as deepen cooperation on maritime security and
countering terrorism.
10
25-10-2015
King Mohammed VI Arrives in New Delhi For India-Africa Forum Summit
Rabat – King Mohammed VI of Morocco arrived this Sunday in New Delhi to participate in
the third India-Africa Forum Summit, scheduled for October 26 to 29.
Spokesperson of India‘s Ministry of External Affairs, Vikas Swarup announced in a tweet that
King Mohammed VI is the first head of state to arrive in New Delhi, adding that he ―was
received by Minister [of State for Agriculture] Sanjeev Balyan‖.
The India-Africa Summit begins on Monday but the main summit, attended by heads of state
and government, including nearly 40 kings, presidents and prime ministers, is on October 29.
The Summit will provide a high-level political platform for African Heads of State and
government and the Indian government to debate their common problems, including food,
health and environment, as well as expand cooperation on maritime security and
counterterrorism.
This is the first trip of King Mohammed VI to India, since he came to power in 1999.
Multiple local media reports said the visit translates the importance Morocco attaches to
strengthening its relations with the Asian country.
Moroccan-Indian trade relations have scored a steady growth recently. In 2014, trade between
the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India‘s exports to Morocco amounting to $500.5
million, while imports were valued at $855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6 percent compared to the previous year,
while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2 percent. The trade balance is
almost always in favor of Morocco due to exports of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate to
India.
11
25-10-2015
Moroccan king arrives Sunday, first of African leaders for the Summit
Moroccan King Mohammed VI arrives here Sunday, among the first African leaders to come
here for the October 26-29 India Africa Forum Summit.
This is the fourth visit of King Mohammed VI to India. He first came here in 1983, at the age
of 20, as the crown prince and since then has made two more visits, once in 2001 on an
official visit, just two years after taking over from late King Hassan II. He and his family
visited India once again in 2004 on a private visit.
Known for his liberal and modern views on issues ranging from religion to education, King
Mohammed VI has undertaken path-breaking political and social reforms that has marked out
Morocco as an exemplar of moderate Islam. The king has ensured that Morocco‘s mosques
remain free of radical teaching and has established an institute for the training of imams,
including of women religious instructors, a first in the Muslim world.
He has also issued calls for a Â―new AfricaÂ‖ and said the continent should focus on its
potential to emerge as a pole of global growth. Morocco has been expanding its profile in
Africa, particularly in Francophone western Africa, by participating in its development,
encouraging political and religious reforms and in enhancing regional security.
King Mohammad VI will be in India on a week-long visit.
12
Summary
Source Intitulé Page
26-10-2015
On India-Africa summit eve, PM Narendra Modi hails continental ties with Africa
70-71
26-10-2015
Reimagine Africa: It’s rich in growth opportunities, thanks to improved economic governance and a rising middle class
72-73
26-10-2015
Terrorism: Buhari, Modi, Africa leaders hold talks in New Delhi
74-75
26-10-2015
Moroccan king is first to arrive, wants to see India
76-77
26-10-2015
Moroccan king is first to arrive, wants to see India
79
26-10-2015
King Mohammed VI Arrives in New Delhi For India-Africa Forum Summit
80
26-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco king arrives in Delhi for summit
81
26-10-2015
Moroccan king arrives Sunday, first of African leaders for the Summit
82
25-10-2015
Morocco’s King to attend India-Africa summit 2015
83-84
25-10-2015
India-Africa Summit Kicks off Monday
85-86
13
25-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco King arrives in Delhi for summit
87
25-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco king arrives in Delhi for summit
88
14
26-10-2015
On India-Africa summit eve, PM Narendra Modi hails continental
ties with Africa
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said it was ―inconceivable‖ and
―incomprehensible‖ that India and the Africa still don‘t have permanent
membership of the UNSC.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said it was ―inconceivable‖ and
―incomprehensible‖ that India and the Africa still don‘t have permanent
membership of the UNSC. (Source: Express photo by Oinam Anand)
As Morocco‘s King Mohammed VI became the first Head of State to arrive on
Sunday for the four-day India-Africa Forum Summit, Prime Minister Narendra
Modi said it was for the first time that India was hosting an event of such huge
scale.
―From Oct 26 to 29, India Africa Forum Summit is being held here. On Indian
soil, it is for the first time that an event of such a big scale is being held. Leaders
of 54 African countries have been invited. Outside Africa, this is the biggest
convention,‖ he said during his monthly radio programme ‗Mann Ki Baat‘.
Taking about the historic ties between India and Africa, he said: ―It is said that
thousands of years ago, this (India and Africa) was a single land mass. Later,
due to the Indian Ocean, it split into two… There are a lot of similarities
between us… Around 27 lakh Indians have been living in Africa for a long
time.‖ He said while India and Africa had economic and political ties, the most
notable factor of the relationship was education provided by India to African
youth. Over 25,000 African students have got education in India, he said.
15
Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said it was
―inconceivable‖ and ―incomprehensible‖ that India and the Africa still don‘t
have permanent membership of the UNSC.
In her inaugural address at the 3rd India-Africa Editors Forum, she said, ―The
Security Council continues to be representative of a world order of 1945. It is
inconceivable that the Security Council today does not have any permanent
representation from Africa, which is the largest continent in terms of number of
countries. It is also incomprehensible that India, which represents almost one-
sixth of world‘s population…, is still out of it. We all need to work together to
remove this anomaly…‖
16
26-10-2015
Reimagine Africa: It’s rich in growth opportunities, thanks to
improved economic governance and a rising middle class
With the third India-Africa Forum Summit kicking off today, New Delhi plans
to lay out the red carpet for African leaders in what is being perceived as its
great Africa push. All 54 African nations have been invited for the summit
which will see leaders like South African President Jacob Zuma, Egyptian
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari and
Morocco‘s monarch King Mohammed VI. This summit should become a pivot
for reimagining India-Africa ties.
Post-Independence India‘s Africa policy was shaped by Nehruvian thought and
revolved around two points – struggle against colonialism and people of Indian
origin in Africa. It was only in the 1970s and 80s that economic diplomacy
started becoming a serious tool of engagement. However, despite India giving
$7.4 billion of concessional credit for African development projects following
the previous two India-Africa summits, it continues to be dwarfed by China‘s
presence on the continent. China‘s bilateral trade with Africa stands at more
than $200 billion, whereas India‘s hovers around $70 billion.
Add to this China‘s massive investments in African infrastructure projects, and
it‘s clear that New Delhi simply can‘t match Beijing‘s deep pockets. However,
this situation also presents a sweet spot for India-Africa relations. African
leaders are wary of becoming over-dependent on Beijing. Plus, Chinese
investments, in many cases, compel African countries to barter away their
natural resources. India with its focus on human resource development can take
advantage of this situation to increase its footprint in Africa. However, harping
on historical ties alone won‘t suffice. India needs to genuinely view Africa as a
land of growth opportunities. Africa today is the youngest region of the world
17
with 65% of the population below 35 years of age. UN estimates that by 2035
half of all Africans will live in cities. With improvements in economic
governance and a rising middle class, there is massive potential in IT enabled
services. In this regard, there‘s an urgent need to facilitate collaboration between
Indian and African startups. Additionally, we need to establish many more
points of contact on the continent and go beyond our traditional Anglophone
friends, to explore opportunities in Francophone countries such as Morocco.
Africa today is looking for genuine growth partners. India must help deliver a
new Indo-African synergy that can speak effectively for this developing bloc at
international forums.
18
26-10-2015
Terrorism: Buhari, Modi, Africa leaders hold talks in New Delhi
Since he came to power in 1999, King Mohammed VI paid visits to a score of
African Sub-Saharan states, including strategic countries such as Mauritania,
Senegal, Congo, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Niger, Côte d'Ivoire and others.
This time the level of engagement has been scaled up significantly, leaders from
African countries and the African Union are expected. Adesina said Buhari,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and other participating heads of state,
would deliberate on climate change, terrorism and issues of common concern to
their countries. More than 300 CCTV cameras have been installed at ITO, Delhi
Secratariat, Raj Ghat and all areas in the vicinity of Indira Gandhi Stadium, the
main venue for the summit, said a senior official. There will also be bilateral
meetings, while President Pranab Mukherjee will host a grand banquet at the
Rashtrapati Bhavan on the evening of 29 October. Both are seen to be on the
cusp of the demographic dividend with vast sections of their population below
the age of 35. It is inconceivable that the Security Council today does not have
any permanent representation from Africa, which is the largest continent in
terms of number of countries. "In each these conferences additionally, India and
Africa and different creating nations should work hand in hand to make sure that
our improvement agenda just isn't affected", Sushma Swaraj stated. India's
current trade with Africa is around $75 billion and it has granted $7.4 billion for
various developmental and capacity building projects in the last four years.
Asked about the political instability in a few African nations, Kant said: "We
don't take a short-term view of our relationship with Africa". The prime minister
also hoped that India and Africa would continue to speak in one voice for
19
reforming the United Nations Security Council and global financial institutions.
For tomorrow, the entire stretch between Ashoka Road and Copernicus Marg
will be blocked in the afternoon hours as the delegates are scheduled to meet the
Prime Minister for lunch. At present, India's trade with African countries is
estimated to be around $70 billion, of which Africa's imports from India is worth
$30.74 billion. The value of India's imports from Africa also grew dramatically
from 2008-2013-by over 80 percent-compared to the sharp decline in the value
of imports from sub-Saharan Africa to the United States The decrease in US
imports from Africa was likely caused by the development of American
hydraulic technology, which lessened USA dependence on African oil and gas-
its major import from the continent (Figure 2). Commerce & Industry minister
Nirmala Sitharaman said that Africa was a natural partner of India. Speaking on
the issue of WTO, Sitharaman said India and Africa were aligned on the issues
and both were in favour of multilateral trading system. Stressing India is a friend
of Africa, Zowide said: "India and Africa will will discuss sustainable
development in this summit. Since April 2014, the scheme has been further
expanded and as of now India provides duty free market access on about 96% of
India's tariff lines", she said.
20
26-10-2015
Moroccan king is first to arrive, wants to see India
King Mohammed VI of Morocco landed with a 400-member delegation well
ahead of other leaders to participate in the summit, but also to get a first hand
feel of the new India.
For India, the king's visit is particularly significant. The king, who took over
from his father King Hassan II in 1999, was an invitee India insisted on, in the
teeth of opposition from the African Union (AU).
The AU had asked India to also invite the Sahrawi Democratic Republic, which
has been carved out of a part of Moroccan territory, and is recognized by the
AU. India this time decided to go beyond the AU recommendations on invitees,
and invite every single African country. This makes the summit extra special for
countries like Morocco.
In 2000, during Vajpayee's tenure, India reversed an illjudged decision in 1985
to recognize the SADR, which had messed up ties with Morocco.
Morocco, an important member of the OIC, had made the point that it was akin
to giving sovereign status to Kashmir.
The fact that Mohammed VI made a special gesture to visit India is not lost on
the Indian government. On two occasions, he cancelled his visits to China, but
after he was invited this year, he had promised to come to India. He is believed
to have expressed an interest in just traveling around New Delhi as a regular
tourist.
21
Every year between 1.2 to 1.4 million foreign tourists visit Rajasthan, which is
famous for its heritage, culture, forts and palaces and whose revenue is heavily
dependent on tourism. – IANS
22
26-10-2015
Moroccan king is first to arrive, wants to see India
King Mohammed VI of Morocco landed with a 400-member delegation well
ahead of other leaders to participate in the summit, but also to get a first hand
feel of the new India.
For India, the king's visit is particularly significant. The king, who took over
from his father King Hassan II in 1999, was an invitee India insisted on, in the
teeth of opposition from the African Union (AU).
The AU had asked India to also invite the Sahrawi Democratic Republic, which
has been carved out of a part of Moroccan territory, and is recognized by the
AU. India this time decided to go beyond the AU recommendations on invitees,
and invite every single African country. This makes the summit extra special for
countries like Morocco.
In 2000, during Vajpayee's tenure, India reversed an illjudged decision in 1985
to recognize the SADR, which had messed up ties with Morocco.
Morocco, an important member of the OIC, had made the point that it was akin
to giving sovereign status to Kashmir.
The fact that Mohammed VI made a special gesture to visit India is not lost on
the Indian government. On two occasions, he cancelled his visits to China, but
after he was invited this year, he had promised to come to India. He is believed
to have expressed an interest in just traveling around New Delhi as a regular
tourist.
23
26-10-2015
King Mohammed VI Arrives in New Delhi For India-Africa Forum
Summit
King Mohammed VI of Morocco arrived this Sunday in New Delhi to
participate in the third India-Africa Forum Summit, scheduled for October 26 to
29.
Spokesperson of India‘s Ministry of External Affairs, Vikas Swarup announced
in a tweet that King Mohammed VI is the first head of state to arrive in New
Delhi, adding that he ―was received by Minister [of State for Agriculture]
Sanjeev Balyan‖.
The India-Africa Summit begins on Monday but the main summit, attended by
heads of state and government, including nearly 40 kings, presidents and prime
ministers, is on October 29.
The Summit will provide a high-level political platform for African Heads of
State and government and the Indian government to debate their common
problems, including food, health and environment, as well as expand
cooperation on maritime security and counterterrorism.
This is the first trip of King Mohammed VI to India, since he came to power in
1999. Multiple local media reports said the visit translates the importance
Morocco attaches to strengthening its relations with the Asian country.
Moroccan-Indian trade relations have scored a steady growth recently. In 2014,
trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India‘s exports to
Morocco amounting to $500.5 million, while imports were valued at $855.8
million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6 percent compared to the
previous year, while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2
percent. The trade balance is almost always in favor of Morocco due to exports
of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate to India.
24
26-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco king arrives in Delhi for summit
Morocco King Mohammed VI was the first head of state to arrive on Sunday to
participate in the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit that begins on Monday.
He was received by Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Balyan. ―The first
head of state arrives. King of Morocco Mohammed VI in Delhi, received by
Minister Sanjeev Balyan,‖ said Vikas Swarup, spokesperson of the ministry of
External Affairs in a tweet.
The summit will witness a record participation of all 54 countries of the African
continent, most of them represented by their heads of state or government. This
is perhaps the only time all 54 African countries are coming together for such a
meeting outside the continent. The agenda includes a meeting of senior officials
on October 26, meeting of foreign ministers on October 27 and the summit on
October 29. There will also be bilateral meetings, while President Pranab
Mukherjee will host a grand banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the evening
of October 29.
The summit is expected to address key challenges facing participating countries,
including food, health and environment, as well as deepen cooperation on
maritime security and countering terrorism.
25
26-10-2015
Moroccan king arrives Sunday, first of African leaders for the Summit
Moroccan King Mohammed VI arrives here Sunday, among the first African
leaders to come here for the October 26-29 India Africa Forum Summit.
This is the fourth visit of King Mohammed VI to India. He first came here in
1983, at the age of 20, as the crown prince and since then has made two more
visits, once in 2001 on an official visit, just two years after taking over from late
King Hassan II. He and his family visited India once again in 2004 on a private
visit.
Known for his liberal and modern views on issues ranging from religion to
education, King Mohammed VI has undertaken path-breaking political and
social reforms that has marked out Morocco as an exemplar of moderate Islam.
The king has ensured that Morocco's mosques remain free of radical teaching
and has established an institute for the training of imams, including of women
religious instructors, a first in the Muslim world.
He has also issued calls for a new Africa and said the continent should focus on
its potential to emerge as a pole of global growth. Morocco has been expanding
its profile in Africa, particularly in Francophone western Africa, by participating
in its development, encouraging political and religious reforms and in enhancing
regional security.
King Morocco VI will be in India on a week-long visit.
26
25-10-2015
Morocco’s King to attend India-Africa summit 2015
King Mohammed VI of Morocco is expected in New Delhi to take part in the
third India-Africa Summit scheduled for this October 26 to 29.
The royal trip to India, the third since King Mohammed VI came to power in
1999, translates the importance Morocco attaches to strengthening its relations
with the Asian country. It also mirrors the keen interest Morocco grants to the
development of the continent and its resolve to spare no effort to boost African
countries‘ partnership, at the bilateral and multilateral levels, at the regional and
international levels.
King Mohammed VI who is aware that Africa and India are facing the same
challenges, mainly regarding the scourge of underdevelopment and the ills it
entails (poverty, disease, illiteracy…) and are having the same development
goals is convinced that a strong partnership between the African continent and
the Indian sub-continent will be beneficial to the two sides.
The third edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS,) held under the topic
―Reinvigorated Partnership, Shared Vision‖ will provide a high level political
platform to the African heads of State and Government and the Indian
government to debate their common problems. They will also share their
respective countries‘ experience in addressing these problems and draw a
roadmap for their partnership, mainly in the economic, trade and technology
realms, the aim being to join efforts to promote the socio-economic development
of all their people.
27
In view of the international juncture, the New Delhi Summit will also debate
cooperation in the field of security and the fight against terrorism, a plague that
is sparing no country and no community in the world.
African-Indian economic and trade relations have been steadily growing since
the launch in 1964 of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)
Program, designed as a bilateral program of assistance of the Indian
Government.
Under the program, many African countries benefited from the expertise
developed by India in the industrial, technical, and research fields. India has also
capitalized on the significant increase of its trade with the African continent.
Trade exchanges have thus gone up over the last 15 years from just $3 billion in
2000 to about 70 billion in 2014.
At the bilateral level, Moroccan-Indian trade relations have also scored a steady
growth. In 2014, trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with
India‘s exports to Morocco amounting to $500.5 million while imports were
valued at $855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6% compared to the
previous year while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2%.
The balance of trade is quasi always in favor of Morocco because of India‘s
imports of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate.
28
25-10-2015
India-Africa Summit Kicks off Monday
The third India-Africa Forum Summit convening in New Delhi October 26
through 29 under the topic ―Reinvigorated Partnership, Shared Vision‖ will be
attended by over 40 heads of State and Government.
The Moroccan delegation will be led by King Mohammed VI, who initiated
since his coming to power in 1999 economic diplomacy and spearheaded his
country‘s growing economic integration with Africa, tirelessly endeavoring to
unleash the continent‘s potential and to make Africa a juncture of innovation
and prosperous nations.
It is therefore not surprising to see King Mohammed make the trip to India to
join his efforts to those of other African leaders to promote partnership with the
Indian sub-continent and make of this partnership a force for Africa‘s
development, one of the ambitions nurtured by the Moroccan King who
endeavors to support the political, economic, financial and cultural development
of the continent and to enhance his country‘s role at the level of regional and
international security.
Since he came to power in 1999, King Mohammed VI paid visits to a score of
African Sub-Saharan states, including strategic countries such as Mauritania,
Senegal, Congo, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Niger, Côte d‘Ivoire and
others. These visits are part of Morocco‘s endeavors and strategy to support the
political, economic, financial and cultural development of the continent and to
enhance the kingdom‘s role at the level of regional and international security.
29
The third edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) will actually ponder
on means of boosting Indian-African cooperation in matters of security and fight
against terrorism, a threat endangering the whole world.
The New Delhi Summit will also debate the challenges the two sides are facing,
mainly regarding the fight against poverty, disease, illiteracy, and their shared
resolve to boost their economic and trade cooperation and to promote the socio-
economic development of their people.
As stated in a note on the IAFS website, from their struggle against colonialism
and apartheid, Africa and India have emerged to jointly accept the challenges of
a globalizing world. ―Even as we combat with common threats – the threat from
international terrorism; the scourge of poverty, disease, illiteracy and hunger; the
challenge of climate change – and collectively promote the socio-economic
advancement of all our people, we believe that India and Africa traverse the
same path, share the same values and cherish the same dreams,‖ says the note,
adding that ―a vibrant India and a resurgent Africa have a vision of a close
partnership.‖
And it is precisely this close partnership that the participants in the third India-
Africa Forum Summit will attempt to materialize.
30
25-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco King arrives in Delhi for summit
Morocco King Mohammed VI was the first head of state to arrive on Sunday to
participate in the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit that begins on Monday.
He was received by Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Balyan.
"The first head of state arrives. King of Morocco Mohammed VI in Delhi,
received by Minister Sanjeev Balyan," said Vikas Swarup, spokesperson of the
ministry of External Affairs in a tweet.
The summit will witness a record participation of all 54 countries of the African
continent, most of them represented by their heads of state or government.
This is perhaps the only time all 54 African countries are coming together for
such a meeting outside the continent.
The agenda includes a meeting of senior officials on October 26, meeting of
foreign ministers on October 27 and the summit on October 29. There will also
be bilateral meetings, while President Pranab Mukherjee will host a grand
banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the evening of October 29.
The summit is expected to address key challenges facing participating countries,
including food, health and environment, as well as deepen cooperation on
maritime security and countering terrorism.
31
25-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco king arrives in Delhi for summit
Morocco King Mohammed VI was the first head of state to arrive on Sunday to
participate in the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit that begins on Monday.
He was received by Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Balyan.
―The first head of state arrives. King of Morocco Mohammed VI in Delhi,
received by Minister Sanjeev Balyan,‖ said Vikas Swarup, spokesperson of the
ministry of External Affairs in a tweet.
The summit will witness a record participation of all 54 countries of the African
continent, most of them represented by their heads of state or government.
This is perhaps the only time all 54 African countries are coming together for
such a meeting outside the continent.
The agenda includes a meeting of senior officials on October 26, meeting of
foreign ministers on October 27 and the summit on October 29. There will also
be bilateral meetings, while President Pranab Mukherjee will host a grand
banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the evening of October 29.
The summit is expected to address key challenges facing participating countries,
including food, health and environment, as well as deepen cooperation on
maritime security and countering terrorism.
32
Summary
Source Intitulé Page
26-10-2015
HM King MOHAMMED VI ATTENDS 3RD
SUMMIT OF INDIA-AFRICA FORUM 46-47
26-10- 2015
India-Africa Forum Summit: Morocco to
Strengthen India’s Economic Position 48-49
26-102015
Morocco’s King Travels to India to Defend
African Causes 50-51
26-10-2015
Morocco Ready To Take India-Africa Economic
Engagement To A New Level – OpEd 60-61
26-10-2015
IAFS: Morocco King Arrives In Delhi For
Summit 62
26 October 2015
Morocco Second Largest Investor in Africa:
Minister 63-64
33
26-10-2015
HM King MOHAMMED VI ATTENDS 3RD SUMMIT OF INDIA-
AFRICA FORUM
Bethesda, Maryland, USA, 10/26/2015 /SubmitPressRelease123/
HM King Mohammed VI arrived on Sunday in New Delhi to attend the third
India-Africa Forum Summit which will take place in the Indian capital from
October 26-29 , 2015 .
The India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) was established in 2008 as the official
platform for the advancement of mutually-beneficial relations between India and
African nations.
The third edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit will provide a high-level
political platform for African Heads of State and government and the Indian
government to debate their common problems, including food, health and
environment, as well as expand cooperation on maritime security and
counterterrorism.
In this the context , HM King Mohammed VI will hold bilateral talks with heads
of state and government of several countries.
Relations between India and Morocco go back to the 14th century when the
famous traveler and writer from Tangier, Ibn Batuta travelled to India. His
writings on medieval Indian society are as much an important source of
historical information about India to the Indians as to the Moroccans. In modern
history, India was active in the UN supporting the Moroccan freedom movement
and recognized Morocco on June 20, 1956 when it became independent of the
protectorate arrangements with France. Diplomatic Missions were established in
1957. Over the years, India and Morocco have enjoyed cordial and friendly
relations and bilateral relations have witnessed significant growth.
As regards trade , Moroccan-Indian relations have scored a steady growth. In
2014, trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India‘s
exports to Morocco amounting to $500.5 million while imports were valued at
$855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6% compared to the
previous year while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2%.
The balance of trade is quasi always in favor of Morocco because of India‘s
imports of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate.
34
There is also a lot of interest in Morocco in Indian art and culture. The 12th
Marrakech International Film Festival (MIFF), held from 30th November to 8th
December, 2012 in Marrakech, paid special tribute to Indian Cinema,
celebrating its centenary in 2013.
35
26 -10- 2015
India-Africa Forum Summit: Morocco to Strengthen India’s Economic
Position
New York – Morocco is participating in the India-Africa Forum Summit
currently underway in New Delhi, from October 26-29, where more than 50
leaders of African countries have gathered to expand cooperation between India
and Africa.
Morocco‘s top economic position in the African continent and its ties with the
rest of the world is thought to benefit and strengthen India‘s position at the
international level.
Morocco‘s King Mohammed VI is attending the India-Africa summit in person
to consolidate Morocco‘s relationship with India.
According to Indian media, India seeks to explore new ways to expand in energy
and infrastructure, as well as innovation and technology, where Morocco ranks
second in Africa.
The North African nation is heavily reliant on its natural resources and well-
suited to play a mediator role between India and Africa.
Morocco is the world‘s top producer of phosphates with the Office Chérifien des
Phosphates (OCP), the largest phosphate company in the world, accounting for
more than a third of Morocco‘s exports.
India is in need of fertilizers, and Morocco is well positioned to export them into
Asia, since phosphates are used to make a variety of fertilizers, pesticides, and
animal feeds.
Recently, more than 100 international giants have chosen Morocco as the place
to open their African plants and franchises. Several of the most prominent global
corporations are taking advantage of Morocco‘s strategic geographical location.
The World Economic Forum (WEF) ranked Morocco‘s economy as the ―most
competitive economy in North Africa.‖
36
Morocco‘s global trade ranks above the global trade average in a region where
exports have slowed down, if not ceased.
According to the latest economic reports, the North African nation has solid
plans to double if not triple its success in the aviation and automotive industry,
and to switch to a green economy within the next 15 years.
Morocco is also ranked second best in infrastructure among African countries,
making it an ideal place for Indian investors to open their businesses and benefit
from its location at a crossroads between Europe, Asia, Africa and the American
continent.
The city of Casablanca was recently ranked as the second financial hub in Africa
and business parks are launching new construction phases to accommodate
Morocco‘s fast industrial growth.
If India consolidates its ties with Morocco by setting the stage at the upcoming
summit, the North African nation could offer the ideal relationship as the go-
between for India and ―Francophone Africa,‖ as well as other European
countries.
Moreover, Morocco‘s new democratic reforms, UN contributions, anti-
radicalization ideas, and overall growing economy and global trade provide
India with a suitable ally.
37
October 26, 2015.
Morocco’s King Travels to India to Defend African Causes
Written by: Jaber Ali on
King Mohammed VI of Morocco, who champions African causes in
international fora, went to New Delhi to attend the 3rd India-Africa Forum
Summit to bolster African causes and lift African-Indian cooperation to new
heights.
The four-day summit, which opens doors oct.26, is an opportunity for the
Moroccan sovereign, who spearheaded several joint development projects in
Africa, to give a new impetus to partnership between the giant Asian country
and the African continent.
As an advocate of Africa‘s interests and aspirations, King Mohammed will meet
with African leaders and explore possibilities of building strategic cooperation
between Africa and India, sharing many affinities, goals and hopes.
Since his enthronement in July 1999, King Mohammed VI showed growing
interest in Africa, providing financial, technical and humanitarian assistance to
African countries.
The Moroccan sovereign is certainly the Head of State who travelled most to
Africa wherein he launched landmark joint development projects, rekindling
hope for African people.
During his African trips, Morocco inked several partnership accords namely
with West and Central African countries in the fields of agriculture, fisheries,
vocational training, health, water, solar energy, electricity…in a bid to speed up
socioeconomic development in these countries.
These projects show clearly Morocco‘s commitment for Africa and its focus on
African development. Banking on its proximity to Africans and better
understanding of African culture, traditions and aspirations, the North African
nation has managed to win the trust of African countries for building a model
partnership, crafted and engineered by Africans to serve their proper goals.
38
India can clearly contribute to this Moroccan-led African ambitious project
thanks to its know-how and its advanced technologies in the fields of
agriculture, industries, medicine, sustained development, solar energy…
Furthermore, both India and Africa share many social and cultural similarities.
They both suffered colonialism, cherish common goals and dreams in a
globalized world. They both face terrorism threats and development challenges.
They both seek to fight poverty, diseases, illiteracy and hunger. They also both
endeavour to speed up socio-economic development while preserving cultural
legacy and centuries-old civilisations.
During the IAFS summit, a vibrant India and an emerging Africa look forward
to building a close partnership, based on the principles of equality, mutual
respect and mutual benefit.
The two sides aspire to go beyond strong bilateral relationships to usher in a new
paradigm of cooperation which takes into account Africa‘s own aspirations for
development.
The IAFS summit, which enables consultations at the highest political level
between African leaders and the Indian government, provides an opportunity to
draw up a road-map for a future ―win-win‖ cooperation, building up on the
momentum spurred by Morocco in Africa.
Morocco is the world‘s largest exporter of phosphates and India is one of its
biggest markets. In 2014, bilateral trade between India and Morocco stood at
$1.35 billion, with the balance of trade in favour of the North African nation.
39
26-10- 2015
Morocco Ready To Take India-Africa Economic Engagement To A New
Level – OpEd
By Said Temsamani
Morocco is determined to establish real win-win partnerships with African
countries, a new axis for peace and economic prosperity. Economic interests and
geo-political considerations account for much of Moroccan royal‘s diplomatic
offensive. Morocco has always voiced openly its keen interest to establish a
powerful partnership with African countries. With this new vision Morocco has
become a leading continental power that will guarantee economic dynamism,
security and stability in the African continent
Undoubtedly, the African economy is gearing up a notch, and now as the
continent has to work together to make the most of it, Morocco is positioning
itself as a motor of African integration.
The African continent is changing. Strong population, natural, agricultural
resources, and an emerging middle class have resulted in growth which attracts
international investors. It‘s almost a new frontier. Africa has swept away the
systems of the past and begun a profound transformation, moving through it
stage by stage. Many African countries started with basic infrastructure like
education, health, housing, and agriculture. And each country is now part of a
region and can produce goods labelled ―Made in Africa‖ for the international
market.‖
40
Committed defender of African integration, Morocco is an regional economic
and financial hub, a hotspot for international investment in Africa. But South-
South dialogue isn‘t enough in itself. African development can only prosper
with a triangular co-operation model, North-South-South.
Morocco is strengthening its political, economic and spiritual presence in Africa.
This royal vision will certainly contribute efficiently to a stable and prosperous
africa that will become more and more economically attractive to foreign
investors.
Morocco‘ s political influence is growing and so is the trust of the states it is
working with. The kingdom keeps defending African‘s cause, either directly,
thanks to its participation in different operations to maintain peace or either
indirectly, supporting, in all of the international summits, sustained efforts for
human and social development in the sub-Saharan area.
Morocco also relies on its spiritual diplomacy. King Mohammed VI in his
capacity as Commander of the Faithful, agreed to official requests made by
African countries to benefit from religious training and cooperation.
Morocco has taken an engagement not just on security issues in sub-Saharan
Africa , but on environmental issues, economic issues , social issues and
education issues. In the ongoing India-Africa Forum Summit taking place in
New Delhi, King Mohammed will certainly take that engagement to a whole
new level.
41
26-10- 2015
IAFS: Morocco King Arrives In Delhi For Summit
NEW DELHI: Morocco King Mohammed VI was the first head of state to arrive
on Sunday to participate in the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit that begins on
Monday. He was received by Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Balyan.
"The first head of state arrives. King of Morocco Mohammed VI in Delhi,
received by Minister Sanjeev Balyan," said Vikas Swarup, spokesperson of the
ministry of External Affairs in a tweet.
The summit will witness a record participation of all 54 countries of the African
continent, most of them represented by their heads of state or government.
This is perhaps the only time all 54 African countries are coming together for
such a meeting outside the continent.
The agenda includes a meeting of senior officials on October 26, meeting of
foreign ministers on October 27 and the summit on October 29. There will also
be bilateral meetings, while President Pranab Mukherjee will host a grand
banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on the evening of October 29.
The summit is expected to address key challenges facing participating countries,
including food, health and environment, as well as deepen cooperation on
maritime security and countering terrorism.
42
26-10- 2015
Morocco Second Largest Investor in Africa: Minister
Rabat – The partnership projects launched by Morocco in Africa have propelled
it to rank second largest investor on the continent, the Minister Delegate for
Foreign Trade, Mohammed Abbou, said recently in New Delhi.
Speaking at the fourth preparatory meeting of trade ministers of African
countries and their Indian counterparts at the third India-Africa Summit,
Minister Abbou highlighted the experience of the Moroccan private sector in
Africa
According to Media24, these partnerships focus on key sectors such as
infrastructure, social housing, electricity, fisheries, health, transport, banking
and insurance, among others.
The Moroccan minister recalled the initiative of Morocco to make the phosphate
sector an engine for agricultural development in Africa.
The Cherifian Office of Phosphates (OCP) group and the Government of Gabon
―have launched a partnership project for the use of gas in Gabon and Morocco‘s
phosphates in fertilizer production for agriculture in Africa to meet 30% of the
needs of the continent,‖ the Minister said.
The India-Africa summit, which is held from October 26 to 29 in New Delhi on
the theme ―Enhanced Partnership, Shared Vision‖, will be an opportunity to
further expand trade ties, particularly in the energy sector, between India and the
African continent.
Fifty-four countries, including more than forty African heads of state are
gathered for the India-Africa Forum Summit, aimed at boosting political,
economic and trade ties.
The visit of King Mohammed VI in early 2014 to four countries in West Africa
(Mali, Ivory Coast, Guinea and Gabon), with a large delegation of business
43
owners, was a clear sign that Morocco regards this region as a promising
horizon for its major investments and business activities.
44
Summary
Source Intitulé Page
28-10- 2015
Morocco: A Key Player In Efforts To Step Up
African-Indian Cooperation 31-33
28-10- 2015
HM King Mohammed VI attends 3rd summit of
India-Africa Forum 34-35
28-10- 2015
PMB To Attend Summit Of Indian-Africa
Forum In New Delhi - Presidency 36-37
28-10-2015
India to hold talks on fertilisers with Morocco at
Africa summit 38-39
WORKING
MONEY.EU
27-10-2015
INDIA-AFRICA FORUM SUMMIT:
MOROCCO TO STRENGTHEN INDIA’S
ECONOMIC POSITION
40-41
28-10- 2015
India-Africa Forum Summit 2015: Prominent
African leaders visiting India 42-43
28-10- 2015
Morocco: HM the King to Take Part Thursday
in New Delhi in 3rd Summit of India-Africa
Forum, Royal Household, Protocol and
44
45
Chancellery Ministry
28-10- 2015
Multi-faceted and growing India-Africa
cooperation 45-46
26-10-2015
HM King Mohammed VI attends 3rd summit of
India-Africa Forum 47-48
27-10- 2015
African dividend: India-Morocco MoU to boost
bilateral trade is welcome 49-50
46
28-10- 2015
Morocco: A Key Player In Efforts To Step Up African-Indian Cooperation
The 3rd summit of India-Africa forum 2015 opened on Monday , October 26,
2015 in New Delhi, with the participation of 54 African countries including
Morocco.
HM King Mohammed VI of Morocco is taking part to this major event to bolster
African causes and lift African-Indian cooperation to new heights.
The sovereign is indeed a significant ally for fostering Indian-African
cooperation due to the fact that he has become a key player in efforts to promote
south-south cooperation and a source of inspiration for political and economic
reform in Africa.
As a reminder, in September 2014, the monarch used the UN General Assembly
meeting as a platform to call for a new approach to development in Africa. The
King described his message as ―simply an earnest call to do justice to the
countries of the South by reconsidering the way they are dealt with and
supporting them in their gradual march towards progress.‖ The King reiterated
his appeal to Africa itself ―to turn the page on the past and overcome its
political, economic and social problems‖ and ―to rely on its own resources to
achieve its development.‖
In November 2014, Morocco hosted the fifth annual Global Entrepreneurship
Summit. ―We are proud that this Summit, which was launched in 2009 by
President Barack Obama, is being held for the first time on African soil,‖ said
King Mohammed VI in a message delivered on the occasion. The King lauded
entrepreneurs as ―people who challenge the established order and the status
quo,‖ calling entrepreneurship and innovation ―springboards for freedom, social
mobility and prosperity.‖ In his keynote address at the Summit, Vice President
Joseph Biden announced the launch of several initiatives aimed at encouraging
entrepreneurship in Morocco and the region.
Also in November 2014, Morocco hosted the second annual World Human
Rights Forum, where 7,000 people from nearly 100 countries met to assess
progress and challenges in the human rights arena. In his address to the Forum,
delivered by Justice Minister Mustafa Ramid, King Mohammed VI made the
47
case for Africa‘s participation in a new era of human rights challenges, stating
that ―Africa wants to be heard; it wants to make a contribution to devising
standards that are truly universal. Our continent does not want to be kept on the
sidelines when it comes to human rights, which concern Africa too.‖
In March 2015, Morocco launched the Mohammed VI Institute for the Training
of Imams, Morchidines, and Morchidates, which aims to instill the values of
Morocco‘s open, moderate form of Islam, based on the Maliki rite and Sunni
Sufism, in the next generation of Muslim religious leaders from across the
region and the world. Morocco has signed accords to train such leaders from a
number of countries across Africa and Europe, including Mali, Libya, Tunisia,
Cote d‘Ivoire, Gabon, Guinea, the Maldives, and Belgium.
Also in March 2015, the Swiss-owned and Monaco-based Crans Montana
Forum convened more than 800 people from around the world in Dakhla,
Morocco for its 25th event, themed ―South-South cooperation and the
development of Africa.‖ In a message delivered to Forum participants on his
behalf by Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane, King Mohammed VI
acknowledged that ―the borders inherited from colonization often continue to be
a major source of tension and conflict,‖ and that ―Africa is a continent with
growing and unsettling security issues‖; but he stressed that ―Africa‘s
tremendous human and natural resources should, instead, be a powerful catalyst
for regional integration,‖ and urged that ―It is up to us – Africans – to innovate
in order to turn them into open spaces where fruitful exchange and interaction
can flourish between African societies.‖
In April 2015, on the sidelines of the third US-Morocco Strategic Dialogue,
Morocco signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Millennium
Challenge Corporation to ―facilitate sharing the lessons of Morocco‘s
development experience with other parts of Sub-Saharan Africa, and serve as an
important catalyst for South-South cooperation.‖
In late May 2015, King Mohammed VI began a three-week, four-nation tour of
West and Central Africa that resulted in the signing of 35 bilateral agreements
with Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Cte d‘Ivoire, and Gabon. The trip came less than a
year after a similar tour, during which the King visited Mali, Cote d‘Ivoire,
Guinea, and Gabon and presided over the signing of more than 80 bilateral
agreements on trade, agriculture, water, energy, and job training, among other
areas. The King had also visited Senegal, Cote d‘Ivoire, and Gabon in March
2013.
In July 2015, King Mohammed VI launched the Mohammed VI Foundation for
African Oulema, to support Moroccan and African theologians and scholars in
promoting religious tolerance and moderation on the continent. The Foundation
48
will support the establishment of religious and scientific schools and cultural
centers to spread the values of moderate Islam across Africa.
49
28-10- 2015
HM King Mohammed VI attends 3rd summit of India-Africa Forum
HM King Mohammed VI arrived on Sunday in New Delhi to attend the third
India-Africa Forum Summit which will take place in the Indian capital from
October 26-29, 2015 .
The India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) was established in 2008 as the official
platform for the advancement of mutually-beneficial relations between India and
African nations.
The third edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit will provide a high-level
political platform for African Heads of State and government and the Indian
government to debate their common problems, including food, health and
environment, as well as expand cooperation on maritime security and
counterterrorism.
In this the context , HM King Mohammed VI will hold bilateral talks with heads
of state and government of several countries.
Relations between India and Morocco go back to the 14th century when the
famous traveler and writer from Tangier, Ibn Batuta travelled to India. His
writings on medieval Indian society are as much an important source of
historical information about India to the Indians as to the Moroccans. In modern
history, India was active in the UN supporting the Moroccan freedom movement
and recognized Morocco on June 20, 1956 when it became independent of the
protectorate arrangements with France. Diplomatic Missions were established in
1957. Over the years, India and Morocco have enjoyed cordial and friendly
relations and bilateral relations have witnessed significant growth.
As regards trade , Moroccan-Indian relations have scored a steady growth. In
2014, trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India‘s
exports to Morocco amounting to $500.5 million while imports were valued at
$855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6% compared to the
previous year while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2%.
50
The balance of trade is quasi always in favor of Morocco because of India‘s
imports of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate.
There is also a lot of interest in Morocco in Indian art and culture. The 12th
Marrakech International Film Festival (MIFF), held from 30th November to 8th
December, 2012 in Marrakech, paid special tribute to Indian Cinema,
celebrating its centenary in 2013.
51
28-10- 2015
PMB To Attend Summit Of Indian-Africa Forum In New Delhi -
Presidency
by Kent Wallace
Unlike India, which began summits with Africa in 2008, China and Japan have
held regular conclaves with African leaders since 2000 and 1994, respectively.
"Two agreements are being negotiated". The King has ensured that Morocco's
mosques remain free of radical teaching and has established an institute for the
training of imams, including of women religious instructors, a first in the
Muslim world. "We have shared global vision", he said.
Speaking to African journalists from 54 countries, Mr Modi emphasised the
need to accelerate the momentum in supporting emerging economies. Our
partnership with Africa is unique and dates back to our civilizational contacts
through ancient seafarers, traders, intellectuals and monks", she said
inaugurating a rose garden dedicated to India-Africa friendship in the national
capital " s diplomatic enclave.
When asked, Syed Akbaruddin, chief coordinator for the Africa summit refused
to come out with any figure on the increase and maintains that all
announcements would be made at the summit on October 29. About $9 billion
in concessional credit has been approved by the Indian government in the last
decade for almost 140 projects in Africa for such areas as agriculture and road
transportation.
External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj will also hold a series of bilateral
meetings with counterparts from Ghana, Congo, Cameron, Malawi and
Zimbabwe, among others. Representatives from 54 African nations, including
heads of state and government of a few 40 countries, and the powerful African
Union are expected to participate in the four-day long summit.
"We can't match the Chinese in terms of resources - but any engagement we do
with the Africans at least gives them a choice", C. Raja Mohan, a foreign policy
commentator at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi, told Reuters.
We are economically diverse, language-wise diverse, culturally diverse. "India
52
and Africa have a tradition and it is in their culture not to pollute or to damage
the environment", stressed Modi.
India and African countries have also been demanding a permanent seat in the
UN Security Council, calling for reforms in the world body to reflect
contemporary realities. They don't talk about Africa, they don't know what is
going on.
53
28-10-2015
India to hold talks on fertilisers with Morocco at Africa summit
Morocco‘s King Mohammed VI is attending the India-Africa Forum Summit
(IAFS) to consolidate Morocco‘s relationship with India. The North African
country‘s top economic position in the continent and its ties with the rest of the
world are expected to benefit and strengthen India‘s position at the international
level.
India is in need of fertilisers and Morocco is well positioned to export them into
Asia, since phosphates are used to make a variety of fertilisers, pesticides and
animal feeds. The state-run OCP Morocco, the world‘s biggest phosphate
exporter, already has trading ventures with Tata Chemicals and Chambal
Fertilisers, and 400,000 tonne a year of phosphoric acid is exported each year to
India. In addition, India buys 5 million tonne (MT) of rock phosphate a year,
20% of which comes from Morocco. India is also looking to get more phosphate
from Tunisia.
Also, according to senior officials, India is seeking to explore new ways to
expand in energy and infrastructure, as well as innovation and technology,
where Morocco ranks second in Africa.
According to McKinsey & Co report on the sub-continent, ―India has the
potential to increase its crop yields by 70% over the next decade, but one of the
factors requiring to be addressed is both the inadequate amount of fertilisers, but
also the imbalance that sees far too little use of fertilisers based on phosphate
and potash. India has delayed potash imports as it tried to force down prices of
potash in particular but, while those prices have fallen, it seems the market has
bottomed. The problem for India is that it still has to deal mainly with the North
54
American and Russia/Belarus in terms of potash and its bargaining strength is
somewhat limited.‖
Various reports in the public domain indicate that the North African nation has
plans to double, if not triple, its success in the aviation and automotive industry
and to switch to a green economy within the next 15 years. The country is also
ranked second in infrastructure among African countries, making it an ideal
place for Indian investors to open their businesses and benefit from its location,
at a crossroads between Europe, Asia, Africa and the American continent.
If India consolidates its ties with Morocco by setting the stage at the IAFS, the
North African nation could offer the ideal relationship as the go-between for
India and ‗Francophone Africa‘, as well as other European countries.
The theme of the IAFS, ‗Reinvigorated Partnership, Shared Vision‘, is expected
to provide a high-level political platform to the African heads of state and
government and the Indian government to discuss their common problems. They
will also share their respective countries‘ experience in addressing these
problems and draw a roadmap for their partnership, mainly in the economic,
trade and technology realms, the aim being to join efforts to promote the socio-
economic development of all their people.
At the bilateral level, Morocco-India trade relations have also scored a steady
growth. In 2014, trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with
India‘s exports to Morocco amounting to $500.5 million, while imports were
valued at $855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6% compared with the
previous year while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2%.
The balance of trade is seemingly always in favour of Morocco because of
India‘s imports of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate.
55
WORKING MONEY.EU
27-10-2015
INDIA-AFRICA FORUM SUMMIT: MOROCCO TO STRENGTHEN
INDIA’S ECONOMIC POSITION
New York - Morocco is participating in the India-Africa Forum Summit
currently underway in New Delhi, from October 26-29, where more than 50
leaders of African countries have gathered to expand cooperation between India
and Africa.
Morocco‘s top economic position in the African continent and its ties with the
rest of the world is thought to benefit and strengthen India‘s position at the
international level.
Morocco‘s King Mohammed VI is attending the India-Africa summit in person
to consolidate Morocco‘s relationship with India.
According to Indian media, India seeks to explore new ways to expand in energy
and infrastructure, as well as innovation and technology, where Morocco ranks
second in Africa.
The North African nation is heavily reliant on its natural resources and well-
suited to play a mediator role between India and Africa.
Morocco is the world‘s top producer of phosphates with the Office Chérifien des
Phosphates (OCP), the largest phosphate company in the world, accounting for
more than a third of Morocco‘s exports.
India is in need of fertilizers, and Morocco is well positioned to export them into
Asia, since phosphates are used to make a variety of fertilizers, pesticides, and
animal feeds.
Recently, more than 100 international giants have chosen Morocco as the place
to open their African plants and franchises. Several of the most prominent global
corporations are taking advantage of Morocco‘s strategic geographical location.
56
The World Economic Forum (WEF) ranked Morocco‘s economy as the ―most
competitive economy in North Africa.‖
Morocco‘s global trade ranks above the global trade average in a region where
exports have slowed down, if not ceased.
According to the latest economic reports, the North African nation has solid
plans to double if not triple its success in the aviation and automotive industry,
and to switch to a green economy within the next 15 years.
Morocco is also ranked second best in infrastructure among African countries,
making it an ideal place for Indian investors to open their businesses and benefit
from its location at a crossroads between Europe, Asia, Africa and the American
continent.
The city of Casablanca was recently ranked as the second financial hub in Africa
and business parks are launching new construction phases to accommodate
Morocco‘s fast industrial growth.
If India consolidates its ties with Morocco by setting the stage at the upcoming
summit, the North African nation could offer the ideal relationship as the go-
between for India and ―Francophone Africa,‖ as well as other European
countries.
Moreover, Morocco‘s new democratic reforms, UN contributions, anti-
radicalization ideas, and overall growing economy and global trade provide
India with a suitable ally.
The post India-Africa Forum Summit: Morocco to Strengthen India‘s Economic
Position appeared first on Morocco World News.
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28-10- 2015
India-Africa Forum Summit 2015: Prominent African leaders visiting India
The third India Africa Forum Summit, which is being held from 26 to 29
October, has set the stage for a new era in mutual partnership between two of the
world's fastest growing regions.
The India-Africa Forum Summit 2015, which is the largest gatherings of African
nations outside the continent, is being attended by all the 54 African countries.
About 40 African leaders are participating in the event along with several
ministers and other dignitaries.
Here are some of the prominent African leaders who are attending the
summit:
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari
Muhammadu Buhari, who was sworn in as Nigerian President in March 2015, is
considered an incoruptible disciplinarian. Buhari had attended the Defence
Services Staff College in Tamil Nadu in 1973, according to The Economic
Times.
India imports 20% of crude oil from the West African country. Both the
countries are members of the Commonwealth of Nations and the Non-Aligned
Movement.
Zimbabwean President Robert G Mugabe
Robert Mugabe, who is the world's oldest leader, has been Zimbabwean
President for over 28 years. He is known for leading revolutions against the
white minority rule in the country.
Sudanese President Omar Hassan Ahmed al-Bashir
Omar al-Bashir is the first sitting presidents to be indicted by the International
Criminal Court. He was slapped with charges of rape, massacre and pillage in
Darfur. India has invited him to the summit as Sudan is not a signatory of ICC.
58
Both the countries have longstanding relations with each other. India was one of
the first Asian countries to recognise Sudan and establish diplomatic relations
with it.
South African President Jacob Zuma
Jacob Zuma, who had been involved in several controversies, was also charged
with rape and corruption. The 73-year-old has 20 children from five marriages.
The two former British colonies are members of BRICS and IBSA (India,
Brazil, South Africa) Forum and have strong diplomatic relations.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi
Abdel Fattah al-Sisi sworn in as Egyptian President in June 2014. He ousted
Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohammed Morsi during the 2013 uprisings and
installed an interim government.
India and Egypt are founders of Non-Aligned Movement under Jawaharlal
Nehru and Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1955. India is the fourth largest trade partner
of Egypt.
Moroccan King Mohammed VI
King Mohammed VI is known for introducing several economic reforms in the
country. Morocco is also one of the most liberal African nations.
India is one of the first countries to support Moroccan freedom movement and to
recognise Morocco as an independent country. Morocco has also supported
India regarding the Kashmir issue.
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28-10- 2015
Morocco: HM the King to Take Part Thursday in New Delhi in 3rd Summit
of India-Africa Forum, Royal Household, Protocol and Chancellery
Ministry
Rabat — HM King Mohammed VI will take part in the 3rd summit of the India-
Africa Forum, held on Thursday, Oct. 29 in New Delhi, the Ministry of Royal
Household, Protocol and Chancellery announced in a statement.
60
28-10- 2015
Multi-faceted and growing India-Africa cooperation
River Gaines
Multi-faceted and growing India-Africa cooperation River Gaines
tribbleagency.com 07:02 | Wednesday, Oct 28, 2015 Over 25,000 African
students have got education in India and political leaders of a number of African
countries are India-educated, he said, adding from the point of view of all these
aspects, the Summit is important. He said India has given concessional credit to
the tune of $7.4 billion.
At least 20 heads of state and government will come with their spouses, who
will follow a parallel itinerary under the watchful gaze of India's ambassador to
Unesco, Ruchira Kamboj. "There can no longer be pockets of prosperity in vast
areas of underdevelopment and insecurity", she said.
The Moroccan delegation will be led by King Mohammed VI, who initiated
since his coming to power in 1999 economic diplomacy and spearheaded his
country's growing economic integration with Africa, tirelessly endeavoring to
unleash the continent's potential and to make Africa a juncture of innovation and
prosperous nations.
"The other is a framework document of cooperation".
Zewide, the dean of the about 45-strong African diplomatic corps in New Delhi,
also hopes that the October 26-29 summit will focus on the "negative media
coverage" about African students in India and find ways to deal with it. "It
brought into sharp relief the perils of India's excessive reliance on western
developed economies, mainly North America and Europe, for trade and
investment". Africa is experiencing rapid growth, too.
"The 2008 global financial crisis was the change agent", Rajrishi Singhal, a
senior fellow in geoeconomics at Mumbai-based Gateway House, said in a
report.
61
Each of Africa's 54 countries and the African Union will participate in the third
edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit that began yesterday, Syed
Akbaruddin, chief coordinator for the event, said. According to sources close to
the Prime Minister's Office, New Delhi is working hard to increase the current
volume of India-Africa trade ties (over United States dollars 70 billion) in order
to match (or even surpass) China-Africa trade of USD 200 billion in the future.
Delegations from India and African counties discussed on the Duty Free Tariff
Preference (DFTP) Scheme, Services Waiver for LDCs and Cotton Technical
Assistance Programme (TAP). Africa in fact represents the youngest region in
the world and India too is the youngest country. Tribble Agency
62
26-10-2015
HM King Mohammed VI attends 3rd summit of India-Africa Forum
HM King Mohammed VI arrived on Sunday in New Delhi to attend the third
India-Africa Forum Summit which will take place in the Indian capital from
October 26-29 , 2015 .
The India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) was established in 2008 as the official
platform for the advancement of mutually-beneficial relations between India and
African nations.
The third edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit will provide a high-level
political platform for African Heads of State and government and the Indian
government to debate their common problems, including food, health and
environment, as well as expand cooperation on maritime security and
counterterrorism.
In this the context , HM King Mohammed VI will hold bilateral talks with
heads of state and government of several countries.
Relations between India and Morocco go back to the 14th century when the
famous traveler and writer from Tangier, Ibn Batuta travelled to India. His
writings on medieval Indian society are as much an important source of
historical information about India to the Indians as to the Moroccans. In modern
history, India was active in the UN supporting the Moroccan freedom movement
and recognized Morocco on June 20, 1956 when it became independent of the
protectorate arrangements with France. Diplomatic Missions were established in
1957. Over the years, India and Morocco have enjoyed cordial and friendly
relations and bilateral relations have witnessed significant growth.
As regards trade , Moroccan-Indian relations have scored a steady growth. In
2014, trade between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India‘s
exports to Morocco amounting to $500.5 million while imports were valued at
$855.8 million.
Indian exports to Morocco in 2014 decreased by 21.6% compared to the
previous year while Moroccan exports to India registered an increase of 10.2%.
63
The balance of trade is quasi always in favor of Morocco because of India‘s
imports of phosphoric acid and rock phosphate.
There is also a lot of interest in Morocco in Indian art and culture. The 12th
Marrakech International Film Festival (MIFF), held from 30th November to 8th
December, 2012 in Marrakech, paid special tribute to Indian Cinema,
celebrating its centenary in 2013.
64
27-10- 2015
African dividend: India-Morocco MoU to boost bilateral trade is welcome
In my previous blog I had mentioned the potential for solar energy cooperation
between India and the north African nation of Morocco. Now, in a major
takeaway from the ongoing India-Africa Forum Summit, the Moroccan Firms
General Confederation (CGEM) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of
Commerce and Industry (FICCI) have inked a memorandum of understanding to
boost trade relations between the two countries. The MoU seeks to increase
trade missions and information exchange to enhance business ties between India
and Morocco. It also aims to establish a platform of exchange in the areas of
investment, industry and tourism.
This is welcome as it exemplifies efforts to diversify the existing phosphate-
centric trade relations between India and Morocco – the latter is the largest
exporter of phosphate in the world. In fact, areas such as pharmaceuticals,
automobile and textile are highly conducive for bilateral trade, investment and
cooperation. Add to this Morocco‘s strategic location on the western edge of
north Africa with both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. Its proximity to
Europe – only 14 kilometres – also makes Morocco an ideal hub for exports into
European markets.
But the real reason that makes Morocco an attractive investment destination is
its political stability. It was one of the few countries in the Middle East, North
Africa (MENA) region to successfully navigate the turbulence of the Arab
Spring wave. This was because Morocco‘s popular monarch, King Mohammed
VI, had immediately directed political reforms that included a new constitution
and devolution of greater powers to the elected Parliament. In fact, in
subsequent general elections in 2011 – which this author had the privilege to
cover for this newspaper – the moderate Islamist PJD party came to power for
the first time in Morocco‘s history.
65
It‘s on the basis of such democratic foundations that Morocco has been able to
emerge as the most competitive economy in north Africa. Aiding this economic
potential are Moroccan government policies which have ensured competitive
costs for exports – approximately $595/container – and low tax rates – taxes
paid by companies represent only 49% of their profits. Plus, initiatives like the
Casablanca Finance City aim to position Morocco as a regional financial hub
and a premier gateway into African markets.
On top of all this, Morocco has strong ties with sister Francophone African
nations in the Sahara and Sahel regions. Taken together, with India seeking to
boost its own economic growth through better ties with Africa – as revealed by
finance minister Arun Jaitley – it simply cannot ignore Morocco. New Delhi and
Rabat enhancing bilateral economic cooperation makes perfect sense.
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Source Intitulé Page
29/10/2015
Morocco: HM the King Calls South Countries to Trust Themselves to Catch Up With Emerging Countries
93
29/10/2015
Morocco: HM the King Calls African Countries to Adopt 'Comprehensive' Approach to Build 'Close' Cooperation With India
94
29/10/2015
Morocco: HM the King Meets in New Delhi With Indian Prime Minister
95
29/10/2015
Africa: Full Text of the Speech Delivered
By HM King Mohammed VI At the 3rd
India-Africa Summit Forum in New Delhi
96-98
28/10/2015
India-Africa Summit: Morocco Calls for
Close Cooperation Between India and
Africa
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28/10/2015
India, Morocco start new chapter of
business cooperation (Lead) 100-101
28/10/2015
India, Morocco start new chapter of
business cooperation (Lead) 102-103
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29/10/2015
Morocco: HM the King Calls South Countries to Trust Themselves to
Catch Up With Emerging Countries
New Delhi — HM King Mohammed VI called on Thursday countries of the
South to trust themselves and invest their assets and skills in the pursuit of
shared progress for their peoples and thus catch up with emerging countries.
"Just as, on an earlier occasion, I pointed out that Africa should learn to trust
Africa, today, from this rostrum, I would like to call upon the countries of the
South to trust themselves and to invest their assets and skills in the pursuit of
shared progress for their peoples and thus catch up with emerging countries",
said the Sovereign at the opening of the India-Africa forum summit that opened
this Thursday in New Delhi.
After recalling that Africa's adhesion to a number of bilateral and continental
cooperation forums which are quite useful, although "some of them suffer from
overlapping and imbalance, which often result in a lack of commitment and
affect their efficiency", HM the King noted that "Today, Africa deserves fair
partnerships, rather than unbalanced relationships and conditional support."
"As I indicated in my address in Abidjan, Africa does not need assistance as
much as it needs mutually beneficial partnerships as well as human and social
projects", the Sovereign stated noting that "securing a bright future for our
peoples is a responsibility that we must shoulder."
"Our countries should continue to work together and uphold the principle of
solidarity in order to serve their interests; otherwise, we will, once again, miss a
historic opportunity", insisted the Sovereign who warned that "this would be
tantamount to a leap into the unknown."
HM The King also voiced "appreciation to India and its Prime Minister for
making sure this Forum Summit is different from previous ones in terms of its
objectives and general orientation as well as the nature of its recommendations
and follow-up measures."
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29/10/2015
Morocco: HM the King Calls African Countries to Adopt
'Comprehensive' Approach to Build 'Close' Cooperation With India
New Delhi — HM King Mohammed VI on Thursday called African countries to
adopted a "comprehensive approach rooted in close cooperation with India".
"Given the mix of development challenges and unprecedented terrorist threats
they face, the Member Countries of this Forum should adopt a comprehensive
approach rooted in close cooperation with India", the Sovereign said at the
opening of the third India-Africa forum summit that opened in New Delhi on
Thursday.
After expressing Morocco's readiness to set up "a joint working group to ensure
coordination and information sharing", HM the King said he firmly believes that
the "promising" African-Indian partnership can grow and prosper thanks to the
complementary nature of resources and skills, and "thus help us achieve our
objectives and serve our peoples."
The sovereign also argued that security and stability are the bedrock of
development, insisting that "without them, our countries cannot achieve social
progress nor undertake meaningful development initiatives."
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Morocco: HM the King Meets in New Delhi With Indian Prime Minister
New Delhi — HM King Mohammed VI held on Thursday in New Delhi a
meeting with Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the 3rd
India-Africa forum summit 2015.
The meeting took place in the presence of the Sovereign advisors Fouad Ali El
Himma and Yassir Znagui, minister of foreign affairs and cooperation,
Salahedine Mezouar, Morocco's ambassador in India, Larbi Reffouh and India's
ambassador in Morocco, Dinesh K Patnaik.
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29/10/2015
Africa: Full Text of the Speech Delivered By HM King Mohammed VI At
the 3rd India-Africa Summit Forum in New Delhi
New Delhi — HM King Mohammed VI delivered this Thursday a speech at the
opening session of the 3rd India-Africa forum summit in New Delhi. Here
follows the speech full text:
Praise be to God
May peace and blessings be upon the Prophet, His Kith and Kin
Mr. Prime Minister,
Your Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
First of all, I would like to say how delighted I am to take part in this third India-
Africa Forum Summit, which is being held in New-Delhi, India, one of
Morocco's major partners.
I have fond memories of my first visit to India, back in 1983, when I led the
Moroccan delegation to the Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement and also
of my first official visit here in 2001. Our two nations enjoy outstanding
relations which date back to the time of my revered grandfather, His Majesty
King Mohammed VI - may he rest in peace - and of the great leader Jawaharlal
Nehru, who were both engaged in the struggle for the liberation and
independence of African States.
I admire the way India has crafted its pioneering development model which has
enabled this country to become one the emerging global powers.
This makes India's ambition to play a key role within UN agencies in charge of
global peace and security all the more legitimate.
97
In this regard, India's main asset is its balanced, responsible foreign policy based
on respect for international legitimacy and for the territorial integrity of states,
as well as on the defense of developing countries' interests and just causes.
I should like to express our appreciation for the Republic of India's constructive
position concerning the Moroccan Sahara issue and for supporting the UN
process to resolve this artificial conflict. I regret, on the other hand, that some
countries have been unable to move forward; they continue repeating obsolete
discourses and theses that date back more than 40 years.
Your Excellencies,
The third India-Africa Forum Summit is an opportunity for us to assess South-
South cooperation, which is the cornerstone of the African-Indian partnership.
The Forum should serve as a platform to lay the foundations for an efficient,
solidarity-based, multidimensional South-South cooperation model, through
which we can make optimal use of the resources and potential available in our
countries.
Our cooperation therefore has to turn the page on the legacy of the past and seek
to serve our countries' strategic interests.
The South-South cooperation we are yearning for is neither a mere slogan nor a
political luxury.
This is a pressing need, given the scale of the challenges faced. Indeed, we
cannot rely on conventional patterns of cooperation that today no longer help us
respond to the growing needs of our peoples.
Morocco is therefore keen to carry out tangible projects, both at the bilateral
level and within the framework of triangular cooperation, in productive areas
which boost development, create jobs and have a direct impact on the citizens'
lives.
Morocco's growing diversified partnerships with a number of African states in
the area of human development as well as in various social, economic and
religious fields clearly illustrate this policy.
This has enabled our country to become the top African investor in West Africa
and the second biggest in the continent.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Africa has taken part in a number of bilateral and continental cooperation
forums which are quite useful. However, some of them suffer from overlapping
98
and imbalance, which often result in a lack of commitment and affect their
efficiency.
Today, Africa deserves fair partnerships, rather than unbalanced relationships
and conditional support.
As I indicated in my address in Abidjan, Africa does not need assistance as
much as it needs mutually beneficial partnerships as well as human and social
projects.
Just as, on an earlier occasion, I pointed out that Africa should learn to trust
Africa, today, from this rostrum, I would like to call upon the countries of the
South to trust themselves and to invest their assets and skills in the pursuit of
shared progress for their peoples and thus catch up with emerging countries.
Securing a bright future for our peoples is a responsibility that we must
shoulder. Our countries should continue to work together and uphold the
principle of solidarity in order to serve their interests; otherwise, we will, once
again, miss a historic opportunity. As far as our peoples are concerned, this
would be tantamount to a leap into the unknown.
I should like, in this respect, to express my appreciation to India and its Prime
Minister for making sure this Forum Summit is different from previous ones in
terms of its objectives and general orientation as well as the nature of its
recommendations and follow-up measures.
He has seen to it the Forum will be a success and has made sure it has the means
needed to be an effective model of cooperation between our countries.
Morocco looks forward to launching joint initiatives with India, within the
framework of this Forum, in areas which are a priority for our peoples and in
which our two countries have gained extensive expertise.
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India-Africa Summit: Morocco Calls for Close Cooperation Between India
and Africa
New Delhi – Morocco called, Tuesday in New Delhi, upon participants in the
third summit of India-Africa forum 2015 to join hands and work together to
undertake integrated and inclusive cooperation actions for economic
development and sustainable human development. “It is up to us to pool efforts and undertake integrated and inclusive cooperation
actions for economic development and sustainable human development, as
underlined by HM King Mohammed VI’s speech during his visit to Côte
d’Ivoire in 2014,” said Foreign Minister Salaheddine Mezouar in a speech at the
foreign affairs ministers’ meeting of the Summit of India-Africa forum 2015.
Mezouar said that the development taking place in Africa and in the Indian
subcontinent offers an opportunity “we should seize especially in a global
economic context marked by a slowdown in developed countries’ growth.”
Mezouar recalled the political, security, economic and environmental challenges
facing India and Africa.
“Our projects and decisions will continue to echo in case States’ peace, security
and stability remain precarious and suffer from the devastating impact of armed
movements, terrorist groups and all kinds of trafficking which hamper all efforts
to establish democracy and undermine all initiatives of sustainable human
development,” he said.
Loyal to its pan-African historical legacy, the Kingdom of Morocco put Africa
at the heart of its concerns and strategic choices by developing a voluntary-
based south-south cooperation, which is innovative, mutually beneficial and
solidarity-based, said the minister.
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India, Morocco start new chapter of business cooperation (Lead)
(IANS) Heralding a new chapter in India's seven centuries-old relations with
Morocco, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and the
Moroccan Centre for Export Promotion (Maroc Export) have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) here during the ongoing India-Africa
Forum Summit.
The MoU will allow cooperation and exchange of information related to trade,
technical transfer and economic cooperation.
Maroc Export, which has brought a 50-member Morocccan business delegation
here, signed a second MoU with India's PHD Chamber of Commerce "to create
synergies between the two organizations for the benefit of the companies
residing in their respective countries."
The business delegation's visit and the agreements reflect both countries desire
to expand the phosphate-centric trade relationship to other sectors. Morocco's
King Mohammed VI is attending the third India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS)
to consolidate Morocco's relationship with India.
Emphasising Morocco's possibility of being a springboard for Indian exports and
investment into Europe, West Africa as well as to the US, the president of the
General Confederation of Moroccan Companies (CGEM) Miriem Bensalah-
Chaqroun said it has free trade agreements (FTA) with 55 countries to give it a
market of 1 billion people.
"We missed out on the earlier two India-Africa summits, but this time we're here
to stay," Bensalah-Chaqroun told the gathering at the MoU ceremony, where the
guests were welcomed with sweets made of date and milk in traditional
Moroccan style.
She said that Moroccan companies were keen to do business with Indian
counterparts in the area of innovations, R&D, renewable energy, infrastructure
and education, among others, adding that Morocco currently enjoyed a good
ranking in ease of doing business.
101
Morocco is the only African country to have an FTA with the US, besides
having 22 such pacts with African nations.
She said Morocco has successfully diversifed its economy, beyond its phosphate
exports, by broadening its manufacturing base to include automobiles,
aeronautics and an offshoring hub.
FIEO director Ashish Jain said Africa's development, as evidenced also from
Morocco, offered major opportunities for Indian enterprise.
Morocco-India trade relations have scored a steady growth. In 2014, trade
between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India's exports to
Morocco amounting to $500.5 million, while imports were valued at $855.8
million.
The balance of trade is generally in favour of Morocco because of India's
imports of phosphoric acid and rock ph'sphate. India sources a large chunk of its
rock phosphates and phosphoric acid requirements for its fertiliser industry from
Morocco, the world's biggest phosphate exporter.
India is seeking to explore new ways to expand in energy and infrastructure, as
well as innovation and technology, where Morocco ranks second in Africa.
India's ties with Morocco, that date back to the 14th century visit of Moroccan
traveller Ibn Batuta, got a major revival with the 2014 visit of then external
affairs minister Salman Khurshid, which also underscored the strategic and
economic importance of the North African country.
Bensalah-Chaqroun, who heads a buiness group in Morocco with diverse
interests, also highlighted Morocco's importance as a "stable" country, in a
context of the challenges posed by Islamic extremism.
Morocco is pioneering a programme to promote moderate Islam to counter
Islamic terrorism in the region.
On Thursday, India's Amity University is slated to sign memoranda of
cooperation respectively with Morocco's Al Akhawayn University and ESCA
School of Management for exchange in the field of higher education.
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28/10/2015
India, Morocco start new chapter of business cooperation (Lead)
(IANS) Heralding a new chapter in India's seven centuries-old relations with
Morocco, the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) and the
Moroccan Centre for Export Promotion (Maroc Export) have signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) here during the ongoing India-Africa
Forum Summit.
The MoU will allow cooperation and exchange of information related to trade,
technical transfer and economic cooperation.
Maroc Export, which has brought a 50-member Morocccan business delegation
here, signed a second MoU with India's PHD Chamber of Commerce "to create
synergies between the two organizations for the benefit of the companies
residing in their respective countries."
The business delegation's visit and the agreements reflect both countries desire
to expand the phosphate-centric trade relationship to other sectors. Morocco's
King Mohammed VI is attending the third India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS)
to consolidate Morocco's relationship with India.
Emphasising Morocco's possibility of being a springboard for Indian exports and
investment into Europe, West Africa as well as to the US, the president of the
General Confederation of Moroccan Companies (CGEM) Miriem Bensalah-
Chaqroun said it has free trade agreements (FTA) with 55 countries to give it a
market of 1 billion people.
"We missed out on the earlier two India-Africa summits, but this time we're here
to stay," Bensalah-Chaqroun told the gathering at the MoU ceremony, where the
guests were welcomed with sweets made of date and milk in traditional
Moroccan style.
She said that Moroccan companies were keen to do business with Indian
counterparts in the area of innovations, R&D, renewable energy, infrastructure
103
and education, among others, adding that Morocco currently enjoyed a good
ranking in ease of doing business.
Morocco is the only African country to have an FTA with the US, besides
having 22 such pacts with African nations.
She said Morocco has successfully diversifed its economy, beyond its phosphate
exports, by broadening its manufacturing base to include automobiles,
aeronautics and an offshoring hub.
FIEO director Ashish Jain said Africa's development, as evidenced also from
Morocco, offered major opportunities for Indian enterprise.
Morocco-India trade relations have scored a steady growth. In 2014, trade
between the two countries stood at $1.36 billion, with India's exports to
Morocco amounting to $500.5 million, while imports were valued at $855.8
million.
The balance of trade is generally in favour of Morocco because of India's
imports of phosphoric acid and rock ph'sphate. India sources a large chunk of its
rock phosphates and phosphoric acid requirements for its fertiliser industry from
Morocco, the world's biggest phosphate exporter.
India is seeking to explore new ways to expand in energy and infrastructure, as
well as innovation and technology, where Morocco ranks second in Africa.
India's ties with Morocco, that date back to the 14th century visit of Moroccan
traveller Ibn Batuta, got a major revival with the 2014 visit of then external
affairs minister Salman Khurshid, which also underscored the strategic and
economic importance of the North African country.
Bensalah-Chaqroun, who heads a buiness group in Morocco with diverse
interests, also highlighted Morocco's importance as a "stable" country, in a
context of the challenges posed by Islamic extremism.
Morocco is pioneering a programme to promote moderate Islam to counter
Islamic terrorism in the region.
On Thursday, India's Amity University is slated to sign memoranda of
cooperation respectively with Morocco's Al Akhawayn University and ESCA
School of Management for exchange in the field of higher education.
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