COP30: Morocco Explores Energy Cooperation Prospects with Netherlands

Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, met with the Netherlands’ Vice Minister for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Steven Collet, on the sidelines of the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazilian Amazon.

The meeting underscored the robust strategic partnership between Morocco and the Netherlands, particularly in the energy sector, founded on a pragmatic and forward-looking approach.

The two officials highlighted the convergence of their visions on energy transition, technological innovation, and sustainable development. They reaffirmed their commitment to pooling expertise to address global energy challenges and promote a greener, more inclusive economy.

Benali brought up Morocco’s recently updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), emphasizing the methodological innovations it introduces to enhance the credibility, transparency, and effectiveness of climate policies. She suggested these could inspire other countries in implementing the Paris Agreement.

The Minister also stressed the Kingdom’s progress in renewable energy and green hydrogen, reiterating that Morocco “places international cooperation at the heart of its energy strategy, based on credibility and the creation of shared value.”

Both parties welcomed the positive results of the bilateral cooperation framework signed in 2023 on renewable energy and green hydrogen. This framework has boosted the exchange of expertise, skill development, and joint participation in major international events, such as the Power-to-X Summit in Marrakech and the World Hydrogen Summit in Rotterdam.

The talks concluded with a reaffirmation of Morocco and the Netherlands’ commitment to strengthening a strategic partnership focused on innovation, sustainability, and shared responsibility in the face of global climate challenges.