China Strengthens Partnership with Morocco to Develop High-Speed Railway Network
China has clearly expressed its desire to actively contribute to the development of Morocco’s railway network, as the country aims to establish 1,500 kilometers of high-speed train lines by 2035. In this context, Beijing is offering its technical expertise, specialized institutions, and enhanced strategic partnership.
Since the launch of the Al Boraq train in 2018, which connects Tangier and Casablanca, cooperation between the two countries in the railway sector has gained increasing momentum. This first-of-its-kind project in Africa transported over 5 million passengers in 2023, indicating a rising demand.
Major Chinese companies, such as China Railway Design Corporation and CREC 4, are involved in several large-scale projects, including the extension of the TGV line to Marrakech and studies for a future connection to Agadir, alongside infrastructure works in Rabat.
This partnership falls within the broader dynamics of Moroccan-Chinese rapprochement, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative, which Morocco views as an opportunity to accelerate its major projects in preparation for international events, including the 2030 World Cup.
