Chile deepens ties with Morocco as Andean support strengthens

A delegation led by Chilean Senate President Manuel José Ossandón met with Mohamed Ould Errachid, President of Morocco’s House of Councilors, in Laayoune on Thursday. This high-level meeting occurred during the Andean Parliament’s historic session in Morocco and focused on expanding parliamentary cooperation and enhancing economic partnerships.

Ould Errachid emphasized the transformative effect of King Mohammed VI’s 2004 visit to Chile, describing it as a catalyst for promising new opportunities in bilateral relations and a model for South-South cooperation.

Ossandón, who also serves as Vice President of the Andean Parliament, honored Ould Errachid with the Senate medal (Medalla del Senado), the highest distinction from Chile's upper chamber. He extended an invitation for Ould Errachid to visit Chile and expressed enthusiasm for participating in the upcoming South-South Parliamentary Dialogue Forum. The two leaders agreed to revive joint initiatives based on a cooperation agreement signed in 2017.

The discussions with Morocco’s Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita included strategies for enhancing trade and tariff policies. At the conclusion of their meeting, Ossandón presented Bourita with the Senate medal (Medalla de la Cámara Alta).

“Chile aims to bolster economic cooperation with Morocco and learn from its experiences, particularly in areas like migration management, food security, and renewable energy,” Ossandón stated.

The trade relationship between the two nations has demonstrated significant growth, with Chilean exports to Morocco reaching $17.78 million in 2024. Meanwhile, Moroccan exports to Chile surged from $11 million in 2021 to $86 million in 2024, primarily driven by the mineral fertilizers and automotive sectors.

This visit coincided with a broader diplomatic initiative as the Andean Parliament, which includes Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, held its plenary session in Rabat. Morocco has held observer status in the Andean Parliament since July 2018, making it the only Arab and African country in this position.

The presence of the Andean Parliament in Morocco was underscored by President Gustavo Pacheco Villar’s reaffirmation of strong support for Morocco’s territorial integrity during talks with Bourita. This aligns with a growing international consensus, as over 100 countries, including key players like the United States, Israel, France, and Spain, have endorsed Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara.

Ould Errachid regarded the Andean Parliament’s session in Morocco as a significant symbol of strengthening inter-regional ties. He noted, “This reflects a serious and sincere commitment to elevate friendships, brotherhood, and partnership relations to superior levels.”

Oscar Dario Perez, Vice President of the Andean Parliament, acknowledged Morocco’s economic transformation, highlighting advancements in infrastructure, energy transition, and sustained GDP growth. The parliamentary delegation expressed interest in Morocco’s strategic role as a vital link between Europe and Africa.

Both parties explored opportunities for academic collaboration through the Andean Network of Universities, aiming to establish research programs focused on Arab world studies, Moroccan affairs, and African development. The meetings concluded with agreements to strengthen South-South parliamentary dialogue and enhance cooperation between Africa and the Andean region, marking a new chapter in Morocco’s diplomatic relations with Latin America.