Abdel-Samad Qiyouh: Landlocked Countries are a Strategic Priority for Morocco
Abdel-Samad Qiyouh, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to connecting landlocked African countries to the Atlantic Ocean through its modern infrastructure during a global forum on transport connectivity. This initiative is part of the Atlantic Initiative launched by King Mohammed VI.
The minister explained that Morocco is transforming its Atlantic facade into a continental hub through ports like Tangier Med, Nador West Med, and the under-construction Atlantic port of Dakhla. The aim is to facilitate coastal countries’ access to global markets and enhance regional connectivity.
Qiyouh emphasized that logistical connectivity serves as a strategic lever for stimulating inclusive growth, calling for the development of multimodal corridors linking Africa to Turkey by integrating railways, roads, ports, and airports, all within a South-South cooperation framework that fosters experience sharing and joint investment.
He also highlighted the importance of accelerating the activation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, standardizing technical norms, and mobilizing financing to support cross-border logistical projects, stressing that African integration hinges on strengthening connectivity and infrastructure, aligned with energy transitions and the development of a national maritime fleet.
