Fishing remains a cornerstone of the economies of Morocco and Mauritania, with both nations committed to fostering closer collaboration in the sector.
On December 30, 2024, Zakia Driouich, Morocco’s Secretary of State for Maritime Fisheries, met with Ahmed Ould Bahia, Mauritania’s Ambassador, in Rabat. Their discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation, building on the strong relations between the two neighbors since 2000.
Key points of the meeting included:
- Maritime Training: Providing education opportunities for Mauritanian students in Morocco’s specialized institutions.
- Scientific and Technical Research: Advancing aquaculture, resource management, and sustainable fishing practices.
- Combatting Illegal Fishing: Strengthening measures against unregulated activities.
- Processing and Trade: Promoting the transformation and commercialization of fishery products.
Both nations emphasized the importance of implementing the March 2022 cooperation agreement and called for a joint sectoral commission to expedite progress. Morocco also invited Mauritania to participate in the 7th Halieutis Fair, highlighting opportunities for networking among economic players.
With shared challenges like overfishing, ecosystem disruptions, and climate change, Morocco and Mauritania aim to adopt mechanisms for joint resource management, including regulating small pelagic fishing and enforcing biological rest periods for specific species.
This partnership embodies a win-win approach, reinforcing sustainable practices while boosting economic ties between the two countries.
Source: yop.l-frii
