Morocco, Spain's Close Academic Cooperation Reflects Strong Bilateral Relations, Says Spanish Ambassador

Spain’s ambassador to Morocco Enrique Ojeda Vila stressed on Thursday in Tetouan that close academic cooperation between Moroccan and Spanish universities reflects the strength of relations between the two countries.

Speaking at the inaugural course of Abdelmalek Essaâdi University (UAE), themed “Morocco, Spain and Latin America: cultural management, communication and diplomacy,” the Spanish diplomat highlighted various aspects of the remarkable and fruitful relations between the two friendly countries. He noted that “the two Kingdoms share a deep conviction of moving forward together to further bolster their relations at all levels.”

In this regard, Ojeda Vila spoke of the deep historical and cultural ties between Morocco and Spain, as well as their strategic cooperation in areas such as economy, education, security and sport, affirming “the conviction of both Kingdoms regarding the need to strengthen opportunities for lasting cooperation, take up common challenges and enhance economic, political, cultural and social assets.”

The diplomat also stressed the importance of highlighting the shared history between Spain and Morocco, and the ancestral ties both countries have cultivated in favor of their peoples.

Spain, he recalled, is Morocco’s leading trading partner in terms of trade, and has set its sights on becoming the Kingdom’s leading foreign investor, particularly in promising sectors such as renewable energies and rail transport.

In addition, the Spanish diplomat highlighted the shared human ties, with around a million Moroccans living in Spain and a large Spanish community in Morocco. He emphasized the spirit of solidarity between the two countries, particularly following the recent floods in Valencia.

He also noted that scientific research, along with cultural and academic exchanges between Moroccan and Spanish universities, could play a significant role in further strengthening the relations between the two nations.

In turn, UAE President Bouchta El Moumni told MAP that cooperation between higher education and scientific research institutions embody the excellent partnership relations between the two countries. He added that the meeting is part of the University’s efforts to broaden the horizons of cooperation with its Spanish counterparts through joint student exchange programs, scientific research and exchanging academic experience, with a view to improving the level of education and strengthening cultural understanding between the two peoples.