The landmark visit by Nadia Calviño, President of the European Investment Bank (BEI), to Morocco underscored the North African nation’s pivotal position as a gateway between Africa and Europe. During her three-day official tour, she engaged with key Moroccan officials to strengthen economic ties and explore new investment avenues.

A strategic partner for Europe

The final leg of her visit coincided with the 21st anniversary of the BEI’s permanent presence in Morocco. Calviño met with Morocco’s Foreign Minister, Nasser Bourita, to discuss ongoing cooperation and future prospects.

“Morocco remains a strategic partner for Europe,” Calviño affirmed, highlighting the country’s role as a cornerstone of regional stability, shared prosperity, and security. She emphasized that the BEI’s continued support would focus on fostering sustainable growth and social development in Morocco, reinforcing the institution’s long-term commitment to the region.

Elevated investments in transport infrastructure

Calviño also held discussions with Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Nadia Fettah, to review the progress of BEI-funded projects and finalize agreements for future initiatives. The visit culminated in the signing of multiple accords combining European loans and grants, all aimed at bolstering Morocco’s transport and structural resilience.

A dedicated transport funding package of €365 million was announced, designed to enhance the resilience of Morocco’s rail and highway networks. Of this amount, €15 million is allocated as a European grant for climate adaptation measures on the national railway network, administered by the Moroccan National Railways Office, while €50 million comes as a BEI loan. The remaining €300 million will focus on improving the resilience and safety of the country’s highways, managed by the National Highways Company.

This initiative aligns with the BEI’s broader strategy to promote safer, more sustainable transport systems across its partner countries.

Historic investment milestone

Over nearly five decades of partnership with Morocco, the BEI has mobilized over €12 billion to support diverse sectors, including SMEs, renewable energy, healthcare, water management, and education. During her visit, Calviño made a symbolic stop at a public school in Rabat, where she attended a musical performance by a youth group participating in the “Morocco 88” project. This initiative, supported by Morocco’s Ministry of National Education and the BEI, fosters extracurricular music clubs in Moroccan high schools, promoting education, social cohesion, and youth development.

The BEI president also praised Morocco’s economic reforms under King Mohammed VI, which have strengthened the country’s macroeconomic and financial framework. These reforms have bolstered investor confidence and enabled the mobilization of major international investments, further solidifying Morocco’s position as a stable and attractive destination for economic cooperation.