Somalia and Morocco have deepened their diplomatic and strategic ties with the signing of a new landmark bilateral cooperation agreement in Rabat.

The accord was concluded during a high-level meeting between Somalia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Abdisalam Dhaay, and Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, H.E. Nasser Bourita.

“The new bilateral relations between the two countries reaffirm our commitment to strengthening ties through a comprehensive cooperation agreement,” said Minister Dhaay following the signing ceremony.

The agreement marks a shift from traditional diplomatic engagement towards a more strategic and sustainable partnership. It forms part of a broader multi-year roadmap between the two nations, setting out frameworks for cooperation across several key sectors.

Education and training are among the central pillars of the partnership. Morocco has pledged to provide 120 scholarships annually to Somali students, aimed at building human capital and strengthening educational links between the two countries.

On the security front, Morocco has also committed to supporting Somalia’s peace efforts in the Horn of Africa and enhancing cooperation in counter-terrorism.

Somalia, for its part, is working to improve its business climate to attract Moroccan investment and expand economic partnerships.

Other priority areas highlighted in the agreement include maritime cooperation, sports, renewable energy, health, and climate change – all seen as critical sectors for advancing shared development goals and regional stability.