The Ambassador of the Philippines to Morocco, Leslie Baja, has highlighted a significant surge in bilateral trade between the two nations over the past five years. While exact figures remain undisclosed, he confirmed that commerce has expanded by roughly 50%, though both sides believe there is still untapped potential to explore.
During a recent engagement, Ambassador Baja emphasized that the 50-year diplomatic relationship between Morocco and the Philippines—celebrated last year—has laid a strong foundation for future cooperation. He pointed to a series of high-level visits, signed agreements, and deepening people-to-people ties as key pillars of this enduring partnership.
The diplomat underscored that economic collaboration remains a top priority, with both nations actively seeking ways to amplify trade and investment. He noted that sectors such as agro-industry, aerospace, electronics, and textiles hold substantial promise for mutual growth. Additionally, he highlighted the Philippines as one of the largest importers of Moroccan phosphate, a critical resource for agricultural and industrial needs.
Baja also drew attention to the ASEAN-Morocco partnership agreement signed in 2023, describing it as a game-changer for regional economic integration. He suggested that this accord could serve as a model for Africa, particularly through Morocco’s Atlantic Initiative, which aims to enhance Sahelian countries’ access to the Atlantic Ocean. The initiative, he argued, could foster stability, resilience, and economic prosperity across the continent.
On the political front, the Ambassador reaffirmed the Philippines’ support for Morocco’s Autonomy Plan for the Southern Provinces, calling it a “solid foundation” for resolving the long-standing dispute. He praised the UN Security Council Resolution 2797 as a pivotal step toward a definitive political solution, expressing optimism about the ongoing UN-led process.
In a cultural gesture, Baja announced the upcoming release of a book chronicling the half-century of Moroccan-Philippine relations. The publication is set to showcase not only historical milestones but also the personal stories of individuals who have contributed to the bond between the two nations. He described the book as a testament to the human connections that have strengthened diplomatic and economic ties over generations.
