Niger reiterated on Wednesday its support for Morocco’s Royal Initiative aimed at facilitating access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean, underscoring its commitment to the project’s implementation.
The position was expressed in Niamey by Niger’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad, Bakary Yaou Sangaré, following the 5th session of the Morocco-Niger Joint Cooperation Commission.
The meeting was co-chaired by Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and focused on strengthening bilateral ties and advancing joint initiatives.
In a joint communiqué issued at the end of the session, both sides commended the Royal Initiatives designed to support development across the African continent.
The communiqué reaffirmed Niger’s support for the International Initiative launched by King Mohammed VI to facilitate access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean.
Niger also reiterated its commitment to actively contribute to the implementation of the initiative, which is seen as a strategic project to enhance regional connectivity.
The two parties further praised the Atlantic African States Process (AASP), describing it as a key framework for strengthening cooperation between Atlantic African countries and the Sahel region.
They emphasized the importance of this process in positioning the African Atlantic space as a geostrategic platform for intra-African cooperation.
The discussions also highlighted the progress achieved in the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline project, which both sides described as a symbol of South-South cooperation.
According to the communiqué, the project is expected to contribute to improving living conditions for local populations while promoting regional integration.
Both countries stressed the need to accelerate the implementation of joint projects that support economic development and connectivity across Africa.
The meeting reflected a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in strategic sectors, particularly in energy and infrastructure.
It also underscored the growing alignment between Morocco and Niger on regional development priorities.
The session concluded with both sides reaffirming their willingness to strengthen bilateral relations and advance initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development across the continent.