Morocco, ASEAN Reaffirm Commitment to Deepen Strategic Partnership

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Morocco and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing practical, results-oriented cooperation across a range of strategic sectors.

The commitment was expressed during a meeting in Jakarta between ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn and Morocco’s newly appointed Ambassador to ASEAN, Redouane Houssaini, who presented his Letter of Credence at the ASEAN Headquarters.

Kao Kim Hourn congratulated Houssaini on his appointment and reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat’s commitment to further strengthening the Sectoral Dialogue Partnership between Morocco and ASEAN, established in 2023. He also welcomed the positive momentum in relations and expressed appreciation for Morocco’s support for ASEAN Community-building efforts.

The ASEAN Secretary-General called for enhanced Moroccan engagement with ASEAN’s various sectoral bodies to translate the existing institutional framework into concrete and mutually beneficial initiatives.

For his part, Ambassador Houssaini highlighted Morocco’s potential role as a bridge between Southeast Asia and Africa, citing the country’s strategic geographical position, infrastructure and longstanding links with the African continent.

He emphasized opportunities for triangular cooperation between ASEAN, Morocco and Africa, particularly in the areas of trade, investment and development.

The discussions also reflected a shared commitment to dialogue, moderation, respect for state sovereignty and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Morocco joined the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia in 2016 and became an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner in September 2023, becoming the first North African country to attain the status.

The appointment of Houssaini further strengthens Morocco’s diplomatic engagement with ASEAN. According to the ASEAN Secretariat, he is Morocco’s first ambassador accredited to the regional organization since 2010, succeeding Ambassador Ouadia Benabdellah, whose tenure ended in April 2025.

The latest engagement is expected to provide fresh momentum to Morocco-ASEAN relations and encourage greater cooperation connecting Southeast Asia, Morocco and the broader African continent.