Morocco has stepped up efforts to attract British investment by presenting its economic opportunities to business leaders in Greater Manchester, one of the United Kingdom’s key economic centers.
The high-level meeting brought together executives from multiple sectors as part of a broader push to strengthen cooperation between Rabat and London.
Morocco’s Ambassador to the UK, Hakim Hajoui, said the initiative reflects the depth of ties between the two countries, which span more than 800 years.
He noted that relations have gained new momentum following the Strategic Dialogue held on June 1, 2025, in Rabat, where both sides elevated cooperation to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership.
According to Hajoui, this upgraded framework opens concrete opportunities across sectors such as energy, industry, infrastructure, technology, innovation, tourism, and agriculture.
He added that Greater Manchester and the wider north of England are well positioned to play a meaningful role in this new phase of cooperation.
The ambassador highlighted Morocco’s progress in infrastructure, industry, and renewable energy under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.
These advances, combined with political stability and sustained reforms over the past two decades, provide investors with long-term visibility and confidence, he said.
Morocco’s strategic location also positions it as a gateway to Africa, a region increasingly seen as a major driver of global economic growth.
Hajoui outlined opportunities spanning financial services, advanced technologies, digital transformation, green hydrogen, clean energy, and agriculture.
He also pointed to investment prospects linked to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
The ambassador noted that Greater Manchester could integrate into this momentum, particularly with the availability of direct air links to Casablanca.
He also recalled that commercial ties between Manchester and Morocco date back to the 19th century, reinforcing the basis for deeper engagement.
Amy Swindells, head of international trade at the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said trade between the two countries continues to grow, supported by high-value sectors.
She highlighted the role of the 2021 Association Agreement in providing a favorable framework and preferential access across several industries.
Representatives of the Moroccan Agency for Investment and Export Development (AMDIE) presented an overview of Morocco’s economic performance and macroeconomic fundamentals.
The meeting concluded with discussions between Moroccan officials and local companies, which expressed strong interest in opportunities across technology, innovation, green energy, infrastructure, healthcare, financial services, and agriculture.
