Nizar Baraka: Morocco as a Strategic Partner for Europe in Security, Energy, Competitiveness, and a Gateway to a Shared Future
Nizar Baraka, the Minister of Equipment and Water, affirmed that Morocco is a strategic partner for Europe amid ongoing global crises, presenting realistic solutions in vital fields including security, energy, competitiveness, and peace. This statement came during his participation, leading a delegation from the Istiqlal Party, at the European People’s Party annual conference held in Valencia, Spain, on April 29 and 30, 2025.
In his address to notable European parties represented in the European Commission and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, Baraka emphasized Morocco’s pivotal role in combating terrorism and managing migration flows. He highlighted the results of exemplary security coordination with Spain, which has led to a notable reduction in irregular migration across borders.
The Secretary-General of the Istiqlal Party indicated that Morocco, in the energy sector, has transitioned from being a traditional partner to becoming part of the European solution, thanks to electricity interconnection with Spain and its advanced capabilities in renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen. He also underscored the significance of the gas pipeline project between Nigeria and Morocco, under royal leadership, contributing to energy security for Europe and supplying 12 African countries to support their developmental pathways.
Regarding economic competitiveness, Baraka confirmed that Morocco has become a preferred destination for European investments, given its advanced industrial environment that includes the automotive industry, aerospace manufacturing, and logistical infrastructure, supported by qualified human resources and clean energy, which provides these investments with a strategic dimension and genuine sustainability.
He announced that 52% of Morocco’s electricity production will come from renewable sources by 2026, asserting that hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup in partnership with Spain and Portugal symbolizes strong integration between Africa and Europe.
On the political front, Baraka called for support for the initiative of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty as a serious solution to end the fabricated conflict over Western Sahara, clarifying that this initiative enjoys significant backing from influential international powers, including the United States and 22 EU member states. He asserted that resolving this conflict is a step towards building a shared future that enhances security and stability in the Mediterranean region.
