The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), organized an event to commemorate Morocco’s ‘Enthronement Day’. The proceedings began with the national anthems of Pakistan and the Kingdom of Morocco and were moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA. Speakers included Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Ambassador Mohammed Karmoune, Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Morocco to Pakistan; Ambassador Syed Adil Gilani, Ambassador of Pakistan to Morocco; and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BOG ISSI. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Mr. Mushahid Hussain Sayed, President PAIDAR, and the Keynote Speaker was Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary (Africa), MOFA.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, highlighted the historical context of Pakistan-Morocco relations, recalling Pakistan’s support for Morocco during its
struggle against colonial rule. He shared how prominent Moroccan leader Ahmed Balafrej was granted Pakistani passport and how Pakistan’s then Foreign Minister, Sir Zafarullah Khan, facilitated him to present Morocco’s case at the United Nations. He also noted Morocco’s rich civilizational heritage, referring to the world’s oldest University in Fez and the legendary 14th-century traveler Ibn Battuta. Mr. Mushahid Hussain Sayed commended the warmth and affection of the Moroccan people and underscored the importance of close collaboration between Pakistan and Morocco to further reinforce the enduring bonds between the two peoples.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, in his remarks, said that over the past 26 years, under His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s wise and dynamic leadership, Morocco has been on a journey of forward-looking and systematic reform leading to remarkable renewal and progress. He noted that the Kingdom has made impressive strides in people-centered governance, infrastructural transformation, industrial diversification, green transition and innovation, social inclusion, human development especially youth empowerment, and active global engagement. At the same time, Morocco has remained firmly rooted in its civilizational heritage and continued to promote inter- faith dialogue, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence. He further said that Morocco and Pakistan have long enjoyed a relationship of friendship and goodwill, based on mutual respect and anchored in a shared commitment to solidarity and cooperation. Our diplomatic relations, established in the 1950s, have grown from strength to strength over the decades. As active members of OIC, the Group of 77, and the Non- Aligned Movement, Pakistan and Morocco share a common vision for regional peace, sustainable development, and an equitable international order. Pakistan deeply appreciates Morocco’s principled positions on key regional and global issues and looks forward to continuing close engagement in all relevant fora. He concluded by underlining ISSI’s intent in forging cooperative ties with Moroccan think-tanks and research institutions as part of people-to-people links.
Ambassador Karmoune highlighted Morocco’s
economic and social progress despite global challenges, noting significant growth in industrial exports and tourism. He invited Pakistani investors to explore opportunities in Morocco’s large-scale development projects and benefit from its extensive trade network. Emphasizing the cordial bilateral
relations rooted in shared history and mutual interests, he called for stronger collaboration between Pakistan and Morocco. He noted that upcoming high-level meetings between the two countries are aimed at identifying new areas for cooperation.
Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan said the glue that holds Morocco together is His Majesty, whose leadership ensures good governance and a focus on public service. He noted the country’s success, owing to its active foreign policy. He praised Morocco’s excellent infrastructure and called it a safe and hospitable country. He added that tourism brings 17.5 million visitors annually and contributes 14% to the GDP. He said Pakistan and Morocco have enjoyed warm relations, and there is a need to enhance cooperation as Morocco is not just a regional leader but a continental one with immense potential.
Ms. Amina Khan highlighted that the relationship between Pakistan and Morocco is marked by mutual trust, cultural affinity, and a shared vision for peace and prosperity. Moreover, she said that we view Morocco as a vital partner in advancing Pakistan’s engagement with Africa. She further opined that there is enormous potential to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and Morocco in key sectors including higher education, climate resilience, renewable energy, agriculture and digital connectivity.
Ambassador Syed Adil Gillani, while expressing his views, said that Morocco is an example of prosperity and development with landmark achievements in various fields like governance. He further said that Morocco is a global leader in sustainable development, with access to good health care and education. He concluded by saying that Morocco’s global influence is equally remarkable.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, in his vote of thanks, expressed his good wishes for the people of Morocco and said that the relationship between Pakistan and Morocco is exemplary and the strategic location of Morocco provides it with a gateway to international
markets.
