The seventh session of the Bénin-Morocco Joint Cooperation Commission concluded in Cotonou on July 21, 2026, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations.
Co-chaired by Corinne Amori Brunet, Beninese Minister of Foreign Affairs in charge of Afro-descendant Integration, and Nasser Bourita, Moroccan Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Residents Abroad, the meeting underscored the depth of the partnership between the two nations. Bourita commended Bénin’s democratic maturity and economic progress, positioning it as an emerging leader in the region. He emphasized aligning bilateral efforts with national priorities to maximize impact, calling for greater private sector involvement to boost economic exchanges, attract investments and support sustainable development.
Addressing regional security concerns, Bourita reaffirmed Morocco’s unwavering solidarity with Bénin in combating terrorism and promoting a tolerant interpretation of Islam. Hugues Oscar Lokossou, Beninese Minister of Economy and Finance, highlighted the need to elevate cooperation to strategic levels across key sectors. While acknowledging trade flows that fall short of potential, he identified opportunities for collaboration in areas where Moroccan and Beninese expertise converge.
Amori Brunet echoed the call for a strengthened partnership spanning economy, trade, industry, investment, tourism, agriculture, justice, security, vocational training, higher education, scientific research, health, digital innovation and culture.
Fourteen landmark agreements inked
The landmark session culminated in the signing of fourteen cooperation agreements, covering critical areas of mutual interest. The accords include:
- Customs administrative assistance to streamline trade processes
- Framework cooperation in higher education, scientific research and innovation
- Judicial mutual assistance convention to strengthen legal ties
- Extradition and transfer of sentenced persons conventions
- Action plan in justice and civil protection to enhance governance
- Security cooperation protocol to bolster regional stability
- Food safety cooperation protocol ensuring public health standards
- Vocational training framework to develop skilled labor
- Academic scholarships and expertise-sharing agreement
- Sports and training memorandum fostering athletic collaboration
- Tourism promotion partnership to boost cultural exchanges
- Environment and sustainable development memorandum aligning environmental goals
