South-Southism: Azerbaijan-Morocco's Enduring Bridges in a Complex World
Over the past three decades, relations between Baku and Rabat have matured into a dynamic framework encompassing political dialogue, parliamentary diplomacy, education, and cultural exchange. Today, Azerbaijan–Morocco ties are a model for constructive South-South cooperation and demonstrate the value of building bridges across regions.
At the political level, official reciprocal visits have reaffirmed the two countries' intent to deepen bilateral cooperation. The visits of Moroccan Parliament Speaker Rachid Talbi Alami to Baku in 2022 and 2023 — including participation in the Non-Aligned Movement Parliamentary Network and the special session honoring National Leader Heydar Aliyev — underscore Morocco's recognition of Azerbaijan's growing role as a regional and international actor. Equally, the official visit of Milli Majlis Speaker Sahiba Gafarova to Rabat in 2023 and her meetings with Moroccan political leadership reflect the shared aspiration to elevate bilateral ties to a new strategic level.
Parliamentary diplomacy plays an increasingly active role in this evolving relationship. The Azerbaijan–Morocco interparliamentary working groups and frequent institutional dialogues have paved the way for stronger legislative cooperation, policy exchange, and coordinated positions in international forums. Recently, a parliamentary delegation from Morocco paid a productive visit to Baku.
The delegation's meeting with members of the Azerbaijan–Morocco Interparliamentary Working Group was a testament to the growing role of parliamentary diplomacy in bilateral relations. Discussions focused on education, cultural ties and parliamentary cooperation, with both sides affirming the importance of aligning national efforts with global goals on literacy and development.
Equally significant was the visit of a group of senior Moroccan journalists representing leading media outlets. Their meeting with members of Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis (Parliament) provided a platform to discuss regional peace, interfaith harmony, and visit the liberated territories of Azerbaijan showcased the role of media diplomacy in promoting peace and reintegration. Such collaboration is vital in advancing the interests of the Global South and reinforcing the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful coexistence. A multidimensional friendship
Trade and economic relations, while still modest in volume, show promise. The 7th session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, and Scientific-Technical Cooperation held in Baku in May 2023, and the visit of Azerbaijani Foreign Minister to Rabat created new momentum for economic engagement. The presence of Moroccan companies in Azerbaijan's tourism and energy sectors reflects untapped potential for business-to-business collaboration.
Cultural diplomacy has become an increasingly significant dimension of Azerbaijan–Morocco relations. During her visit to Morocco last year, Ms. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, engaged in meaningful discussions focused on child welfare and the Foundation's initiatives aimed at enhancing support services for children.
This year, cultural ties were further deepened by the visit of Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa, President of the Rabat Heritage Preservation Foundation, who attended the International Carpet Festival in Baku as its honorary guest. The organization of the Rabat Carpet Art Exhibition at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum was a vivid reflection of the growing cultural affinity between the two nations. Her Royal Highness was warmly received by H.E. Mehriban Aliyeva, First Lady and Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, underscoring the strong bond between our countries through high-level cultural engagement. Education exchanges, including the visits of Azerbaijani university delegations to Morocco and Moroccan students benefitting from Azerbaijani government scholarships, have further strengthened people-to-people connectivity.
The common membership in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Non-Aligned Movement provides a solid multilateral platform for coordination. Both countries advocate for a fairer global order, support dialogue among nations, and emphasize the importance of cultural heritage, and development-oriented partnerships.
A strong foundation of trust and shared values
As Azerbaijan prepares to host the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in 2026, Morocco — a leading country in urban planning and sustainability — will be one of the stakeholders and partners in this globally significant event.
Looking ahead, the future of Azerbaijan–Morocco relations rests on a strong foundation of trust, respect, and shared values. By investing in youth exchange, green energy cooperation, digital transformation, and regional connectivity, both countries can transform their bilateral agenda into a broader platform for Afro-Eurasian dialogue and prosperity.
In a divided world, the enduring friendship between Azerbaijan and Morocco reminds us that meaningful diplomacy, anchored in common values and mutual benefit, can still thrive — and deliver results. Tags: Azerbaijan and Morocco
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