Cotonou, Bénin, set the stage for significant diplomatic progress this week as the seventh ministerial meeting of the African Atlantic States Process (AASP) officially commenced. Co-chaired by Morocco and Bénin, the gathering underscores a growing commitment to deepening regional cooperation under the strategic vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
Led by Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, Director-General of Morocco’s Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), the Moroccan delegation included key figures such as Tarik Iziraren, Permanent Secretary of the AASP, Ambassador Rachid Rguibi of Morocco to Bénin, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Communities Abroad. The presence of these leaders reflects the high stakes of this initiative.
Building a shared vision for Africa’s Atlantic corridor
The African Atlantic States Process (AASP) was launched in Rabat in June 2022 with a clear mission: to transform the Atlantic coastal region of Africa into a space of peace, stability, and shared prosperity. Since then, the initiative has gained substantial momentum.
Key achievements include the establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat, the formation of three thematic working groups, and the adoption of a unified action plan. This plan focuses on critical areas such as political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy development, connectivity, energy transition, and marine environmental protection.
Milestones and future directions
Previous ministerial meetings—held in Rabat, New York alongside the UN General Assembly sessions, and Praia in May 2025—have delivered tangible outcomes. These include joint declarations and action plans designed to strengthen cooperation among Atlantic African states. Priorities include maritime security, sustainable fisheries, energy transition, and sustainable development.
The Cotonou meeting builds on this progress, aiming to enhance coordination among member states to advance integration and co-development across the African Atlantic space. With shared challenges and opportunities, the summit is a vital step toward realizing the region’s full potential.
