The 7th ministerial session of the Atlantic African States Process (PEAA) opened this Monday in Cotonou, with the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Benin jointly presiding over the gathering. This high-level meeting aims to deepen collaboration among African nations bordering the Atlantic Ocean, advancing regional integration in line with His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s vision for a shared space of peace, stability, and inclusive prosperity.
Morocco’s delegation led by key diplomats
The Moroccan delegation, headed by Mohamed Methqal—Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI)—includes Tarik Iziraren, Permanent Secretary of the PEAA, Rachid Rguibi, Morocco’s Ambassador to Benin, alongside senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Residents Abroad.
Milestones since the PEAA’s inception
Since its launch in Rabat in June 2022, the PEAA has achieved significant progress, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat, the formation of thematic working groups, and the adoption of an action plan centered on political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy, connectivity, energy transition, and marine environmental protection.
Following successful meetings in Rabat, New York, and Praia, the Cotonou session marks another step forward in strengthening coordination among member states. The discussions will focus on fostering sustainable development, improving maritime governance, and promoting mutually beneficial co-development across Africa’s Atlantic coastline.
Strengthening Africa’s Atlantic identity
The PEAA’s vision aligns with broader efforts to position Africa’s Atlantic façade as a dynamic hub for economic and geopolitical cooperation. By prioritizing dialogue and shared initiatives, the process seeks to unlock the region’s vast potential while addressing challenges such as climate change, illegal fishing, and uneven infrastructure development.