Morocco and Egypt signaled a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties during a joint committee meeting earlier this week, emphasizing cooperation over recent economic tensions and online disputes.
The session marked a reset in relations after a previously scheduled meeting in February was postponed amid trade disagreements. Officials from both countries underscored the depth of their historic partnership and their intent to move forward on a more pragmatic basis.
During the talks, Egypt reaffirmed its support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and backed a United Nations-led political solution to the Western Sahara dispute. Morocco, in turn, endorsed a renewed framework for strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Tajeddine El Houssaini, a professor of international relations, said the postponement had been widely interpreted as a sign of deteriorating ties, but stressed that relations between Rabat and Cairo are rooted in history. He pointed to the two countries’ military cooperation during the 1973 Arab-Israeli war as a defining moment in their partnership.
The meeting resulted in the signing of several agreements and memorandums of understanding aimed at boosting investment, facilitating capital flows and strengthening economic ties. Measures include linking financial markets, avoiding double taxation and supporting joint projects to create a more stable business environment.
The renewed push for cooperation comes after a period of strained economic relations. Morocco imported about $827 million worth of Egyptian goods last year, compared with exports of just $52 million, highlighting a significant trade imbalance.
Tensions escalated when Egypt restricted certain Moroccan exports, including locally manufactured cars, citing a policy prioritizing essential goods, pharmaceuticals and raw materials. Morocco also imposed limits on some Egyptian imports, pointing to challenges in implementing the Agadir Agreement, a free trade pact linking Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia and Jordan.
Reports indicated that thousands of Egyptian shipments were delayed at Moroccan ports in early 2025 as authorities sought to curb a surge in imports. Egyptian officials have also argued for factoring in returns from their investments in Morocco — estimated at around $700 million — when assessing the overall economic relationship.
El Houssaini said the high-level talks were aimed at resolving misunderstandings, restoring balance in trade and improving the implementation of existing agreements.
Beyond economic issues, officials also acknowledged that social media tensions, including during recent football competitions, have at times strained public perceptions, though they emphasized the importance of maintaining mutual respect.
Both countries highlighted their shared regional role, noting their participation in key organizations such as the Arab League, the African Union and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said the partnership with Morocco is essential for strengthening regional stability and expanding economic cooperation. He expressed hope that the agreements reached would significantly boost trade and investment while unlocking the full potential of both economies.
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