Statement by Foreign Minister Wadephul prior to his departure for Morocco

Morocco is an important bridge between the European and the African continent and therefore a key partner for Germany.

This year, we'll be celebrating the 70th anniversary of our bilateral relations - and we still have lots of plans for the future. Already now, the country is our second-largest trading partner on the African continent. And there is significant further potential for growth in our economic relations, particularly in the areas of renewable energies, critical raw materials and hydrogen. Moreover, Moroccan skilled workers are, for example, providing valuable support in the health and care sector in Germany.

Especially in times marked by uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, it is with partners like Morocco that we want to strengthen and intensify our exchange. Our countries share a commitment to the rules-based international order, with the United Nations at its core. In the strategic dialogue with my counterpart Nasser Bourita, we will address a wide range of international issues. Morocco has declared its willingness to help with the implementation of the 20-point plan for Gaza and to be part of an international security force. This is evidence of the country's stabilising role in the region, a role that we highly value and are counting on. We also have the same objective as Morocco when it comes to stabilising the Sahel region, in order to mitigate the causes of crises and displacement there.