Press Releases
Japan-Morocco Foreign Ministers’ Video Conference
September 2, 2022
On September 2nd, commencing at 9:10 PM for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. Hayashi Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, held a video conference with H.E. Mr. Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco. The overview is as follows.
- At the outset, Minister Hayashi expressed his hope to further develop the relationship between the two countries, given the longstanding excellent relations of both countries based on the friendship between the Japanese Imperial Family and the Moroccan Royal Family, and the potential for further development of bilateral relationship in many fields. In response, Minister Bourita stated that the two countries have established excellent relations in various fields over the years and that he would like to further strengthen cooperation between both countries.
- They welcomed the entry into force of the Japan-Morocco Investment Agreement and the Tax Convention between Japan and Morocco this April, and concurred on further encouraging Japanese companies to enter the Moroccan market. Minister Hayashi stated that Japan would like to support the promotion of socio-economic development and economic stability of Morocco through the provision of Yen Loan for the education sector of up to 22 billion yen signed this July. Minister Hayashi also called for cooperation for the stable supply of ammonium phosphate, an important fertilizer for agricultural production. Minister Bourita expressed his gratitude for Japan's support so far and stated that he would like to cooperate with Japan in ensuring a stable supply of ammonium phosphate.
- Furthermore, Minister Hayashi, expressing his regret about Morocco’s absence from TICAD 8, stated that Japan's diplomatic position of not recognizing "Western Sahara" as a state has not changed in any way, and that Japan made clear its position at the TICAD8 conference. Both Ministers then confirmed that TICAD is an important forum for discussing development in Africa, and the two countries will continue to closely cooperate for achieving that goal.
- The two Ministers also discussed international situations. Minister Hayashi then stated that it is essential for the international community to cooperate in its response to Russia's aggression against Ukraine. In response, Minister Bourita stated that he would like to cooperate with Japan in dealing with various issues which the international society is facing.
- Furthermore, the two Ministers confirmed to work together in dealing with North Korea, including on the nuclear, missile, and abductions issues as well as international issues such as Security Council reform.