The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad recently hosted the formal inauguration of the fifth phase of the Morocco–Council of Europe Neighborhood Partnership (2026-2029) in Rabat.

This pivotal gathering brought together representatives from various departments and institutions involved in this partnership, officials from the Council of Europe’s Rabat Office, and delegates from the Embassies of Council of Europe member states accredited to Morocco.

Discussions during the event were structured around two panels. The first panel delved into the achievements and future prospects of the new Morocco–Council of Europe Neighborhood Partnership, while the second focused on practical approaches to ensure the sustainable implementation of projects outlined within this framework.

Since the ascension of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to the Throne, the Kingdom of Morocco has embarked on an extensive journey of reforms. These initiatives are designed to solidify democratic principles, champion human rights, and reinforce the rule of law. Driven by a profound ambition to modernize the state, Morocco has embraced robust constitutional commitments.

This dynamic reform process has enabled Morocco to achieve significant progress. Notable advancements include the consolidation of democratic institutions, firmly established by the 2011 Constitution, the strengthening of national mechanisms dedicated to promoting and safeguarding human rights, the ongoing reform of the judicial system, and the enshrining of judicial independence.

It is precisely within this enlightened vision of the Sovereign that this Neighborhood Partnership with the Council of Europe is situated. The collaboration underscores Morocco’s unwavering commitment to embedding its institutions in modernity and upholding international standards.

Furthermore, this commitment has translated into deeper cooperation with various Council of Europe bodies across diverse fields. These include the audiovisual sector, where Morocco, through the HACA, has been a Member of the Executive Council of the European Audiovisual Observatory since 2013, holding the unique distinction as the only non-European country from its region to sit on this body. Cooperation also extends to sports and the vital promotion of equality between women and men, a fundamental principle enshrined in Article 19 of the Moroccan Constitution.

Indeed, Morocco and the Council of Europe share long-standing and multifaceted relations. Morocco stands out as one of the most dedicated partners in the region, demonstrated by its adherence to 13 conventions and protocols spanning various critical domains such as Justice, Cybercrime, and Data Protection.

The Kingdom of Morocco also holds the distinction of being the first country in the Southern Neighborhood and the sole representative from the African continent to serve as a “Partner for Democracy” with the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE). Additionally, it remains the only country in the region to have attained the status of “Partner for Local Democracy” with the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities (CPLR).