Algeria has recently enhanced its military capabilities through several acquisitions, including the purchase of three AW159 Wildcat helicopters intended to expand the anti-submarine capabilities of its Adhafer-class corvettes. This move complements Algeria's existing use of Russian aerial platforms, such as the Su-57 fighter jets, which align with the Algerian Air Force's operational preferences. Additionally, Algeria has received its first Su-35 fighter jets, further strengthening its air force. Meanwhile, Morocco has bolstered its military strength with the delivery of AH-64 Apache helicopters, symbolizing the strategic partnership between Morocco and the United States and supporting Morocco's efforts to address current security challenges.

Morocco hosted the opening ceremony of the 4th edition of the specialized training cycle for African election observers in Rabat, co-chaired by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and African Union Commissioner Bankole Adeoye. The program aims to strengthen democratic governance ahead of multiple elections across Africa, with participation from officials representing 52 African countries and training for 120 election observers. Concurrently, Morocco is advancing its position as a digital innovation leader in Africa through the GITEX AFRICA 2025 event in Marrakech, attracting over 45,000 visitors, 1,450 exhibitors, and more than 350 investors from 35 countries to foster technological solutions and support startups. Moroccan startups raised $82 million in capital in 2024 despite an 11% decline, with partnerships such as that between Attijariwafa Bank and UM6P Ventures focusing on revitalizing the entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly in GreenTech and deeptech sectors. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is financing a digital platform to support financing and factoring for Moroccan micro, small, and medium enterprises (MPMEs). Tourism in Morocco showed strong growth in the first quarter of 2025, with 4 million tourists, a 22% increase compared to 2024, including 2.1 million international visitors and 1.9 million from the diaspora. Additionally, the global phosphate and fertilizer industry leader OCP Group participated in the 17th International Agriculture Fair in Morocco, where France was the guest of honor. Meanwhile, international tourism traffic increased by over 21 million passengers up to March 2025, with Greece reporting a 5.4% rise in inbound travel flows during January and February 2025. Airport traffic grew by 8% in the first quarter despite inflation and rating downgrades in some regions.

Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares publicly reaffirmed support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan for Western Sahara during a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Madrid on Jueves Santo. The meeting was not announced in Albares' official agenda, and only graphic media were allowed, with no press questions permitted. This marks the first time in three years a Spanish government official has publicly endorsed the autonomy proposal, which Morocco considers the most credible solution to the regional dispute.

Read more

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita held meetings in Rabat with key French regional leaders to enhance bilateral cooperation under the renewed Morocco-France partnership. Bourita met with Michaël Delafosse, Mayor of Montpellier, who expressed a commitment to decentralized cooperation supporting the new strengthened partnership between Morocco and France. Bourita also met with Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France region, who reaffirmed France's support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and emphasized the strong ties between Île-de-France and Morocco. Pécresse announced the upcoming signing of two cooperation agreements with the Moroccan regions of Casablanca-Settat and Marrakech-Safi. The cooperation aims to advance economic, academic, and cultural exchanges, including joint efforts in African art conservation and mediation, as well as the loan of artworks from the Frac Île-de-France collection.

The 4th edition of the specialized training cycle for African election observers commenced on April 21, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco, co-presided by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Bankole Adeoye. The training program includes high-level participants from 52 African countries and aims to enhance the capacity of election observers across the continent. Concurrently, West African leaders gathered in Accra, Ghana, on April 22 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The summit marks a pivotal moment for the organization, which is at a crossroads regarding its future direction and regional influence. Ghana is also intensifying efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with Sahel nations amid these regional developments.

Morocco secured their first-ever Africa U-17 Cup of Nations title on home soil by defeating Mali 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in the final held at Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia. The match was marked by outstanding performances, particularly from Morocco's goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch, who was named Man of the Match for his crucial saves during the shootout. Ilies Belmokhtar, a 16-year-old player from Monaco, scored the winning penalty with a Panenka style finish. Morocco's coach Nabil Baha was recognized as the Best Coach, while Abdellah Ouazane was named Man of the Competition. Mali received the Fairplay Team Award, and Loukman Tapsoba and Alynho Haidara were the tournament's top scorers with seven goals each. The tournament highlighted Morocco's rising football talent, with the U-17 victory adding to their recent successes in various African and international youth competitions. Meanwhile, in Asia, Uzbekistan won the AFC U-17 Championship by defeating Saudi Arabia 2-0, claiming their second title since 2012. Uzbekistan's goalkeeper Nematulloh Rustamjonov was awarded Best Goalkeeper, and Sadriddin Khasanov received the Most Valuable Player award. The U-17 football scene saw notable individual and team achievements across both continents in 2025.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has entered into a strategic partnership with Royal Air Maroc (RAM), designating the Moroccan airline as the official global partner for several major African football competitions. The agreement, valued at 220 million South African rand, covers the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled for July 2025 and the 2025 AFCON tournament to be held in Morocco in December 2025 and January 2026. CAF President Patrice Motsepe highlighted that RAM was chosen despite competing offers from foreign companies. In related developments, Morocco is investing 13.2 billion Moroccan dirhams in 2025 to enhance passenger experience and strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. The country’s tourism sector shows robust growth, with 4 million tourists recorded in the first quarter of 2025, a 22% increase compared to 2024, including 2.1 million international visitors and 1.9 million from the diaspora. Tourism generated revenues of 104 billion dirhams (approximately $11.2 billion) by November 2024, accounting for nearly 7% of Morocco’s GDP. Additionally, Cape Verde welcomed nearly 1.2 million tourists in 2024, marking a 16.5% increase from 2023, while a Brazilian state reported over 744,000 foreign visitors in the first quarter of 2025, a 51% rise from the same period in 2024. Algeria and Qatar signed an agreement on April 8, 2025, aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Morocco is advancing toward acquiring South Korean military equipment, including the K2 Black Panther tank, following high-level discussions in South Korea. The potential purchase also encompasses surface naval vessels, a KSS-III submarine, and the Cheongung (KM-SAM) medium-range surface-to-air missile system. The K2 Black Panther tank is noted for its 1,500-horsepower engine, active suspension system, 120mm gun, and advanced electronic control systems. Morocco currently ranks among the top 20 countries globally in terms of tank numbers, possessing approximately 900 combat tanks compared to Spain's 327. China leads the global ranking of tank holdings, followed by Russia despite its losses in Ukraine.

Air Algérie inaugurated a new direct flight route between Algiers and Abuja on April 6, 2025, operating once weekly with departures on Sundays and returns on Fridays, enhancing connectivity between North and West Africa. The airline's African network has experienced a 76% increase in passenger traffic over the past decade, rising from 102,000 passengers in 2014 to 179,000 in 2024. Algeria and Qatar have signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation in air transport services, allowing unlimited passenger and freight flights between the two countries. Meanwhile, Morocco has launched the "Aéroports 2030" plan, committing $1.4 billion in 2025 to modernize its airport infrastructure. The Moroccan National Airports Office (ONDA) anticipates handling 37.6 million passengers in 2025, a 15% increase, and is upgrading airports to prevent capacity issues. In Belgium, Brussels Airport announced a €500 million investment plan aimed at expanding and modernizing the airport to accommodate passenger growth. However, the federal mediator and the municipality of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert expressed concerns about the plan, particularly its lack of measures to reduce aircraft noise and pollution.

Spain and Morocco have declared that their bilateral relations are experiencing the 'best moment' in their history, three years after a significant shift in Spain's position on the Western Sahara. This declaration came during a meeting in Madrid on Jueves Santo between Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares and his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita.

The shift in Spain's stance, which occurred on 7 de abril de 2022, recognized Morocco's serious and credible efforts within the Naciones Unidas framework to find a mutually acceptable solution to the Western Sahara dispute. Albares reaffirmed Spain's support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy initiative as the most serious, realistic, and credible basis for resolving the regional conflict.

Bourita highlighted the 'turning point' marked by the meeting between Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and King Mohamed VI in Rabat in April 2022, which ushered in a new era of trust and mutual respect between the two nations. He emphasized that the current relationship is an 'example to follow' in addressing contemporary challenges.

The United States is leading the annual African Lion 25 military exercises, which commenced on April 14, 2025, in Tunisia and will continue in May across Ghana, Senegal, and Morocco. Israel is participating in the drills for the first time in several years, with its troops stationed in Morocco, highlighting expanding defense cooperation between Israel and Morocco, a significant purchaser of Israeli military equipment. Spain has also returned to the exercises after a five-year absence. The African Lion exercises involve multiple African nations and are coordinated by the U.S. Africa Command.

Morocco's economy showed a rebound in early 2025 after a moderate growth of 3.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Haut-Commissariat au Plan (HCP). The national economy grew by 4.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a recovery in agricultural activity and resilient merchant services supported by sustained domestic demand. Inflation in Morocco rose to 2.2% in the first quarter of 2025, up from 0.7% in the previous quarter. Looking ahead, the economy is expected to continue growing at 3.8% in the second quarter of 2025, still fueled by domestic demand. Meanwhile, Malaysia's economy expanded by 4.4% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, slower than expected, due to weaker growth in manufacturing and construction sectors. Despite this, Malaysia's exports to the United States surged in March, although authorities have expressed concerns over uncertainties caused by impending U.S. tariffs.

The United States government has approved the sale of 600 Stinger Block I missiles to Morocco in a deal valued at approximately $825 million. The approval was announced by the Pentagon and the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), marking a significant enhancement of Morocco's short-range air defense capabilities. The contract excludes the missile firing units known as gripstocks, with the price per missile estimated at around $1.3 million. This arms sale is part of Morocco's broader efforts to modernize its defense systems. The deal involves major defense contractors including Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies (RTX).

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita has conducted a series of diplomatic meetings across Europe to strengthen bilateral relations and garner support for Morocco's autonomy plan regarding the Western Sahara dispute. In Tallinn, Bourita met with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, who reaffirmed Estonia's support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan, describing it as a credible and serious basis for a negotiated solution. Bourita also engaged with Moldovan Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi in Chișinău, where Moldova endorsed the autonomy plan as the most credible framework for resolving the Sahara issue and praised Morocco's extensive reforms under King Mohammed VI. In Zagreb, Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman expressed Croatia's view of the autonomy plan as a good basis for a political solution and welcomed Morocco's reforms. Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó reiterated Hungary's support for the autonomy plan as the foundation for resolving the dispute. Bourita's diplomatic tour included a surprise visit to Madrid, where Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares reaffirmed Spain's support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and the autonomy plan, highlighting the positive state of bilateral relations since the 2022 roadmap agreement. Discussions between Spain and Morocco also covered territorial waters and customs cooperation. The United States has also reaffirmed its strong ties with Morocco amid these diplomatic engagements. These developments reflect a growing international consensus supporting Morocco's approach to the Western Sahara conflict and expanding cooperation in trade, security, and cultural exchanges between Morocco and several European countries.

France and Morocco have announced a strengthened partnership focusing on immigration and security cooperation. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, during a visit to Rabat, revealed the creation of a joint Franco-Moroccan task force aimed at identifying the nationality of migrants in France to expedite the expulsion of Moroccan nationals in irregular situations. This development follows a diplomatic thaw between Paris and Rabat in late 2024, which has already facilitated easier visa access. Additionally, France plans to open a private consular office in Laâyoune, located in Western Sahara, to manage consular services and will establish a visa issuance center in El Aaiún next month. Meanwhile, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita visited Madrid to meet with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, reflecting strong bilateral relations and Spain's support for Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara. The meeting also aimed to review progress on the roadmap agreed upon in 2022 between the two countries.

Walid Regragui, the head coach of the Moroccan national football team, discussed his efforts to convince Lamine Yamal, a young talent from FC Barcelona, to represent Morocco internationally. Regragui described Yamal as an exceptional player and revealed that the Moroccan federation presented their project to him. However, Yamal, who identifies more closely with Spain, chose to play for the Spanish national team. Regragui spoke candidly about the situation, noting that he had direct conversations with Yamal and his family. Despite Morocco's attempts, Yamal was honest about his preference for Spain. The Moroccan coach remains under contract until the 2026 World Cup but acknowledged that coaching decisions are often contingent on results. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi has praised Yamal's abilities, calling him one of the best players in the world at just 17 years old, highlighting his impressive skills and potential for further growth.

Moussa Dadis Camara, the former leader of Guinea's junta, has reportedly left the country for Morocco due to medical reasons, according to statements from his family and close associates. This development follows earlier reports indicating that Camara had departed Guinea for health-related issues. The situation surrounding Camara's health and his current status remains a point of interest as he has been a significant figure in Guinea's political landscape.

During an oral question session in the Moroccan House of Representatives, Minister Karim Zidane announced that investment projects are expected to generate 40,000 jobs. The total investment for these projects amounts to 126 billion dirhams, with 95 billion dirhams allocated for import substitution and 96 billion dirhams for export initiatives. Additionally, Minister Mezzour highlighted that 19 billion dirhams will be dedicated to food industry projects, which are projected to create 750,000 direct jobs. The Moroccan e-commerce sector has also seen substantial growth, with 28.1 million online transactions in 2023, generating 9.6 billion dirhams, reflecting increases of 35.6% in volume and 24.3% in value compared to 2021. Furthermore, the country has invested 13.2 billion dirhams in 2025 to enhance passenger experience and strengthen its position as a regional air hub.

Morocco is emerging as a key player in the Deeptech sector in Africa, driven by innovations in research and development. The country is set to host GITEX Africa 2025 in Marrakech from April 14 to 16, attracting 1,400 exhibitors and 45,000 visitors from 139 countries. This event highlights Morocco's ambition to position itself as a regional hub for technology and innovation, particularly in sectors such as TravelTech, Fintech, and Greentech. Additionally, the Moroccan government is implementing the 'Maroc Digital 2030' strategy to accelerate digital transformation and enhance its technological ecosystem. The country is also launching a regional Arab-African AI center, projected to contribute over $1.2 trillion to Africa's GDP by 2030. Investment in airport infrastructure is also a priority, with $1.4 billion allocated for modernization efforts in 2025. The International Monetary Fund forecasts a growth rate of 3.2% for Morocco in 2024, supported by reforms and infrastructure projects despite climate challenges. The collaboration between Inwi and APEBI aims to bolster Moroccan tech SMEs through dedicated support programs.

In response to a cyberattack attributed to Algerian hackers, Moroccan authorities are investigating a data breach that has compromised the personal information of two million workers affiliated with the country's Social Security Agency. The attack has raised concerns about cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive data in Morocco. The investigation aims to assess the extent of the breach and implement measures to prevent future incidents.

Algeria has recently enhanced its military capabilities through several acquisitions, including the purchase of three AW159 Wildcat helicopters intended to expand the anti-submarine capabilities of its Adhafer-class corvettes. This move complements Algeria's existing use of Russian aerial platforms, such as the Su-57 fighter jets, which align with the Algerian Air Force's operational preferences. Additionally, Algeria has received its first Su-35 fighter jets, further strengthening its air force. Meanwhile, Morocco has bolstered its military strength with the delivery of AH-64 Apache helicopters, symbolizing the strategic partnership between Morocco and the United States and supporting Morocco's efforts to address current security challenges.

Morocco hosted the opening ceremony of the 4th edition of the specialized training cycle for African election observers in Rabat, co-chaired by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and African Union Commissioner Bankole Adeoye. The program aims to strengthen democratic governance ahead of multiple elections across Africa, with participation from officials representing 52 African countries and training for 120 election observers. Concurrently, Morocco is advancing its position as a digital innovation leader in Africa through the GITEX AFRICA 2025 event in Marrakech, attracting over 45,000 visitors, 1,450 exhibitors, and more than 350 investors from 35 countries to foster technological solutions and support startups. Moroccan startups raised $82 million in capital in 2024 despite an 11% decline, with partnerships such as that between Attijariwafa Bank and UM6P Ventures focusing on revitalizing the entrepreneurial ecosystem, particularly in GreenTech and deeptech sectors. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is financing a digital platform to support financing and factoring for Moroccan micro, small, and medium enterprises (MPMEs). Tourism in Morocco showed strong growth in the first quarter of 2025, with 4 million tourists, a 22% increase compared to 2024, including 2.1 million international visitors and 1.9 million from the diaspora. Additionally, the global phosphate and fertilizer industry leader OCP Group participated in the 17th International Agriculture Fair in Morocco, where France was the guest of honor. Meanwhile, international tourism traffic increased by over 21 million passengers up to March 2025, with Greece reporting a 5.4% rise in inbound travel flows during January and February 2025. Airport traffic grew by 8% in the first quarter despite inflation and rating downgrades in some regions.

Spain's Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares publicly reaffirmed support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan for Western Sahara during a meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in Madrid on Jueves Santo. The meeting was not announced in Albares' official agenda, and only graphic media were allowed, with no press questions permitted. This marks the first time in three years a Spanish government official has publicly endorsed the autonomy proposal, which Morocco considers the most credible solution to the regional dispute.

Read more

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita held meetings in Rabat with key French regional leaders to enhance bilateral cooperation under the renewed Morocco-France partnership. Bourita met with Michaël Delafosse, Mayor of Montpellier, who expressed a commitment to decentralized cooperation supporting the new strengthened partnership between Morocco and France. Bourita also met with Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France region, who reaffirmed France's support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and emphasized the strong ties between Île-de-France and Morocco. Pécresse announced the upcoming signing of two cooperation agreements with the Moroccan regions of Casablanca-Settat and Marrakech-Safi. The cooperation aims to advance economic, academic, and cultural exchanges, including joint efforts in African art conservation and mediation, as well as the loan of artworks from the Frac Île-de-France collection.

The 4th edition of the specialized training cycle for African election observers commenced on April 21, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco, co-presided by Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Bankole Adeoye. The training program includes high-level participants from 52 African countries and aims to enhance the capacity of election observers across the continent. Concurrently, West African leaders gathered in Accra, Ghana, on April 22 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The summit marks a pivotal moment for the organization, which is at a crossroads regarding its future direction and regional influence. Ghana is also intensifying efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties with Sahel nations amid these regional developments.

Morocco secured their first-ever Africa U-17 Cup of Nations title on home soil by defeating Mali 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw in the final held at Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia. The match was marked by outstanding performances, particularly from Morocco's goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch, who was named Man of the Match for his crucial saves during the shootout. Ilies Belmokhtar, a 16-year-old player from Monaco, scored the winning penalty with a Panenka style finish. Morocco's coach Nabil Baha was recognized as the Best Coach, while Abdellah Ouazane was named Man of the Competition. Mali received the Fairplay Team Award, and Loukman Tapsoba and Alynho Haidara were the tournament's top scorers with seven goals each. The tournament highlighted Morocco's rising football talent, with the U-17 victory adding to their recent successes in various African and international youth competitions. Meanwhile, in Asia, Uzbekistan won the AFC U-17 Championship by defeating Saudi Arabia 2-0, claiming their second title since 2012. Uzbekistan's goalkeeper Nematulloh Rustamjonov was awarded Best Goalkeeper, and Sadriddin Khasanov received the Most Valuable Player award. The U-17 football scene saw notable individual and team achievements across both continents in 2025.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has entered into a strategic partnership with Royal Air Maroc (RAM), designating the Moroccan airline as the official global partner for several major African football competitions. The agreement, valued at 220 million South African rand, covers the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled for July 2025 and the 2025 AFCON tournament to be held in Morocco in December 2025 and January 2026. CAF President Patrice Motsepe highlighted that RAM was chosen despite competing offers from foreign companies. In related developments, Morocco is investing 13.2 billion Moroccan dirhams in 2025 to enhance passenger experience and strengthen its position as a regional aviation hub. The country’s tourism sector shows robust growth, with 4 million tourists recorded in the first quarter of 2025, a 22% increase compared to 2024, including 2.1 million international visitors and 1.9 million from the diaspora. Tourism generated revenues of 104 billion dirhams (approximately $11.2 billion) by November 2024, accounting for nearly 7% of Morocco’s GDP. Additionally, Cape Verde welcomed nearly 1.2 million tourists in 2024, marking a 16.5% increase from 2023, while a Brazilian state reported over 744,000 foreign visitors in the first quarter of 2025, a 51% rise from the same period in 2024. Algeria and Qatar signed an agreement on April 8, 2025, aimed at boosting tourism and strengthening economic ties between the two countries.

Morocco is advancing toward acquiring South Korean military equipment, including the K2 Black Panther tank, following high-level discussions in South Korea. The potential purchase also encompasses surface naval vessels, a KSS-III submarine, and the Cheongung (KM-SAM) medium-range surface-to-air missile system. The K2 Black Panther tank is noted for its 1,500-horsepower engine, active suspension system, 120mm gun, and advanced electronic control systems. Morocco currently ranks among the top 20 countries globally in terms of tank numbers, possessing approximately 900 combat tanks compared to Spain's 327. China leads the global ranking of tank holdings, followed by Russia despite its losses in Ukraine.

Air Algérie inaugurated a new direct flight route between Algiers and Abuja on April 6, 2025, operating once weekly with departures on Sundays and returns on Fridays, enhancing connectivity between North and West Africa. The airline's African network has experienced a 76% increase in passenger traffic over the past decade, rising from 102,000 passengers in 2014 to 179,000 in 2024. Algeria and Qatar have signed an agreement to strengthen cooperation in air transport services, allowing unlimited passenger and freight flights between the two countries. Meanwhile, Morocco has launched the "Aéroports 2030" plan, committing $1.4 billion in 2025 to modernize its airport infrastructure. The Moroccan National Airports Office (ONDA) anticipates handling 37.6 million passengers in 2025, a 15% increase, and is upgrading airports to prevent capacity issues. In Belgium, Brussels Airport announced a €500 million investment plan aimed at expanding and modernizing the airport to accommodate passenger growth. However, the federal mediator and the municipality of Woluwe-Saint-Lambert expressed concerns about the plan, particularly its lack of measures to reduce aircraft noise and pollution.

Spain and Morocco have declared that their bilateral relations are experiencing the 'best moment' in their history, three years after a significant shift in Spain's position on the Western Sahara. This declaration came during a meeting in Madrid on Jueves Santo between Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares and his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita.

The shift in Spain's stance, which occurred on 7 de abril de 2022, recognized Morocco's serious and credible efforts within the Naciones Unidas framework to find a mutually acceptable solution to the Western Sahara dispute. Albares reaffirmed Spain's support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy initiative as the most serious, realistic, and credible basis for resolving the regional conflict.

Bourita highlighted the 'turning point' marked by the meeting between Spanish President Pedro Sánchez and King Mohamed VI in Rabat in April 2022, which ushered in a new era of trust and mutual respect between the two nations. He emphasized that the current relationship is an 'example to follow' in addressing contemporary challenges.

The United States is leading the annual African Lion 25 military exercises, which commenced on April 14, 2025, in Tunisia and will continue in May across Ghana, Senegal, and Morocco. Israel is participating in the drills for the first time in several years, with its troops stationed in Morocco, highlighting expanding defense cooperation between Israel and Morocco, a significant purchaser of Israeli military equipment. Spain has also returned to the exercises after a five-year absence. The African Lion exercises involve multiple African nations and are coordinated by the U.S. Africa Command.

Morocco's economy showed a rebound in early 2025 after a moderate growth of 3.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to the Haut-Commissariat au Plan (HCP). The national economy grew by 4.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a recovery in agricultural activity and resilient merchant services supported by sustained domestic demand. Inflation in Morocco rose to 2.2% in the first quarter of 2025, up from 0.7% in the previous quarter. Looking ahead, the economy is expected to continue growing at 3.8% in the second quarter of 2025, still fueled by domestic demand. Meanwhile, Malaysia's economy expanded by 4.4% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2025, slower than expected, due to weaker growth in manufacturing and construction sectors. Despite this, Malaysia's exports to the United States surged in March, although authorities have expressed concerns over uncertainties caused by impending U.S. tariffs.

The United States government has approved the sale of 600 Stinger Block I missiles to Morocco in a deal valued at approximately $825 million. The approval was announced by the Pentagon and the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), marking a significant enhancement of Morocco's short-range air defense capabilities. The contract excludes the missile firing units known as gripstocks, with the price per missile estimated at around $1.3 million. This arms sale is part of Morocco's broader efforts to modernize its defense systems. The deal involves major defense contractors including Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Technologies (RTX).

Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita has conducted a series of diplomatic meetings across Europe to strengthen bilateral relations and garner support for Morocco's autonomy plan regarding the Western Sahara dispute. In Tallinn, Bourita met with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, who reaffirmed Estonia's support for Morocco's 2007 autonomy plan, describing it as a credible and serious basis for a negotiated solution. Bourita also engaged with Moldovan Vice Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mihai Popșoi in Chișinău, where Moldova endorsed the autonomy plan as the most credible framework for resolving the Sahara issue and praised Morocco's extensive reforms under King Mohammed VI. In Zagreb, Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman expressed Croatia's view of the autonomy plan as a good basis for a political solution and welcomed Morocco's reforms. Hungary's Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó reiterated Hungary's support for the autonomy plan as the foundation for resolving the dispute. Bourita's diplomatic tour included a surprise visit to Madrid, where Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares reaffirmed Spain's support for Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and the autonomy plan, highlighting the positive state of bilateral relations since the 2022 roadmap agreement. Discussions between Spain and Morocco also covered territorial waters and customs cooperation. The United States has also reaffirmed its strong ties with Morocco amid these diplomatic engagements. These developments reflect a growing international consensus supporting Morocco's approach to the Western Sahara conflict and expanding cooperation in trade, security, and cultural exchanges between Morocco and several European countries.

France and Morocco have announced a strengthened partnership focusing on immigration and security cooperation. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, during a visit to Rabat, revealed the creation of a joint Franco-Moroccan task force aimed at identifying the nationality of migrants in France to expedite the expulsion of Moroccan nationals in irregular situations. This development follows a diplomatic thaw between Paris and Rabat in late 2024, which has already facilitated easier visa access. Additionally, France plans to open a private consular office in Laâyoune, located in Western Sahara, to manage consular services and will establish a visa issuance center in El Aaiún next month. Meanwhile, Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita visited Madrid to meet with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, reflecting strong bilateral relations and Spain's support for Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara. The meeting also aimed to review progress on the roadmap agreed upon in 2022 between the two countries.

Walid Regragui, the head coach of the Moroccan national football team, discussed his efforts to convince Lamine Yamal, a young talent from FC Barcelona, to represent Morocco internationally. Regragui described Yamal as an exceptional player and revealed that the Moroccan federation presented their project to him. However, Yamal, who identifies more closely with Spain, chose to play for the Spanish national team. Regragui spoke candidly about the situation, noting that he had direct conversations with Yamal and his family. Despite Morocco's attempts, Yamal was honest about his preference for Spain. The Moroccan coach remains under contract until the 2026 World Cup but acknowledged that coaching decisions are often contingent on results. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi has praised Yamal's abilities, calling him one of the best players in the world at just 17 years old, highlighting his impressive skills and potential for further growth.

Moussa Dadis Camara, the former leader of Guinea's junta, has reportedly left the country for Morocco due to medical reasons, according to statements from his family and close associates. This development follows earlier reports indicating that Camara had departed Guinea for health-related issues. The situation surrounding Camara's health and his current status remains a point of interest as he has been a significant figure in Guinea's political landscape.

During an oral question session in the Moroccan House of Representatives, Minister Karim Zidane announced that investment projects are expected to generate 40,000 jobs. The total investment for these projects amounts to 126 billion dirhams, with 95 billion dirhams allocated for import substitution and 96 billion dirhams for export initiatives. Additionally, Minister Mezzour highlighted that 19 billion dirhams will be dedicated to food industry projects, which are projected to create 750,000 direct jobs. The Moroccan e-commerce sector has also seen substantial growth, with 28.1 million online transactions in 2023, generating 9.6 billion dirhams, reflecting increases of 35.6% in volume and 24.3% in value compared to 2021. Furthermore, the country has invested 13.2 billion dirhams in 2025 to enhance passenger experience and strengthen its position as a regional air hub.

Morocco is emerging as a key player in the Deeptech sector in Africa, driven by innovations in research and development. The country is set to host GITEX Africa 2025 in Marrakech from April 14 to 16, attracting 1,400 exhibitors and 45,000 visitors from 139 countries. This event highlights Morocco's ambition to position itself as a regional hub for technology and innovation, particularly in sectors such as TravelTech, Fintech, and Greentech. Additionally, the Moroccan government is implementing the 'Maroc Digital 2030' strategy to accelerate digital transformation and enhance its technological ecosystem. The country is also launching a regional Arab-African AI center, projected to contribute over $1.2 trillion to Africa's GDP by 2030. Investment in airport infrastructure is also a priority, with $1.4 billion allocated for modernization efforts in 2025. The International Monetary Fund forecasts a growth rate of 3.2% for Morocco in 2024, supported by reforms and infrastructure projects despite climate challenges. The collaboration between Inwi and APEBI aims to bolster Moroccan tech SMEs through dedicated support programs.

In response to a cyberattack attributed to Algerian hackers, Moroccan authorities are investigating a data breach that has compromised the personal information of two million workers affiliated with the country's Social Security Agency. The attack has raised concerns about cybersecurity and the protection of sensitive data in Morocco. The investigation aims to assess the extent of the breach and implement measures to prevent future incidents.