1. A strategic partnership for Europe
2. A dedicated transport investment plan
3. Five decades of financial support

The first official visit of Nadia Calviño, President of the European Investment Bank (BEI), to Morocco underscored the country’s pivotal role as a bridge between North Africa and Europe.

A strategic partnership for Europe

During the final leg of her visit, coinciding with the 21st anniversary of the BEI’s permanent presence in Morocco, Ms. Calviño met with Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad.

Following the meeting, the BEI President reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting Morocco’s growth trajectory, emphasizing the country’s status as a strategic partner for Europe. She described Morocco as “a pillar of stability, shared security, and prosperity for both Africa and Europe.”

The visit also highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between the BEI and Morocco, with Ms. Calviño noting the country’s evolving economic reforms under King Mohammed VI that have strengthened investor confidence.

A dedicated transport investment plan

Ms. Calviño also met with Nadia Fettah, Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, to review cooperation frameworks and investment priorities.

During her stay in Rabat, she signed agreements combining European loans and grants totaling 365 million euros for transport infrastructure resilience. Of this amount, 15 million euros is allocated as a grant for climate adaptation measures in the railway network, managed by Morocco’s national railway operator. Another 50 million euros comes as a BEI loan, while the remaining 300 million euros will enhance highway resilience and safety through the National Highways Authority.

These initiatives align with the BEI’s broader strategy to promote safer, more sustainable transport systems across partner countries.

Five decades of financial support

Over nearly 50 years of cooperation, the BEI has mobilized over 12 billion euros to support Morocco’s development across sectors such as SMEs, renewable energy, healthcare, water, and education.

The visit included a symbolic stop at a public school in Rabat, where Ms. Calviño observed a musical performance by students participating in the “Morocco 88” initiative. This extracurricular music program, supported by the Moroccan Ministry of National Education and the BEI, fosters youth development and social cohesion.