The Argentine government has formally requested Morocco’s support for Rafael Grossi’s candidacy to succeed António Guterres as Secretary-General of the United Nations. This appeal was made during the eighth session of the joint commission and the sixth round of political consultations between Argentina and Morocco, held on June 11 in Buenos Aires.
Javier Milei’s administration has positioned Grossi—current Director-General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)—as a leading candidate for the UN’s top role. Argentina now seeks to secure Morocco’s backing, recognizing the North African nation’s significant diplomatic clout across Africa and global forums. According to official accounts, Rabat’s influence could amplify Buenos Aires’ campaign beyond bilateral ties.
The Argentine delegation was led by Roberto Salafia, Under-Secretary for International Economic Negotiations and Integration, and Juan Manuel Navarro, Under-Secretary for Foreign Policy. Morocco’s delegation was headed by Fouad Yazourh, Director-General of International Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Discussions covered bilateral relations, pressing international issues, and avenues for broader cooperation.
Argentina has framed Grossi’s bid as «a diplomatic cornerstone of its multilateral agenda, championed by a seasoned leader experienced in navigating international crises, mediating between global powers, and steering complex negotiations within UN institutions.» Securing Morocco’s endorsement adds a critical African dimension to Argentina’s strategy, as the UN Secretary-General is selected first by the Security Council before final approval by the General Assembly.
Rabat’s backing sought for Security Council vote
Since assuming leadership of the IAEA in 2019, Grossi has built a reputation for managing high-stakes nuclear oversight, including oversight of Iran’s atomic program, safeguarding Ukrainian nuclear facilities amid war, and navigating geopolitical tensions. Argentina officially launched its campaign in late 2025, expanding outreach to governments across multiple regions.
Morocco’s selection is no coincidence. The kingdom’s active role in international bodies, deep ties across Africa, and engagements with global decision-makers make it a pivotal ally. Argentine officials emphasize that «Moroccan support could bolster Grossi’s credibility in Africa and foster alliances with states pivotal to Security Council and General Assembly dynamics.»
The race includes candidates from Latin America and Africa such as former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet (backed by Brazil), UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan (Costa Rica), Ecuadorian diplomat María Fernanda Espinosa, and former Senegalese President Macky Sall. With multiple contenders in play, Argentina must cultivate support beyond its regional sphere.
Buenos Aires highlights Grossi’s dual expertise in technical diplomacy and high-level negotiations. His tenure at the IAEA has placed him at the heart of critical talks on nuclear proliferation, safety standards, and conflict-driven crises. Argentina portrays him as «a diplomat fluent in the language of power, capable of maintaining dialogue amid tensions, and restoring robust political action to the UN.»
Morocco’s strategic value in this effort is unmatched. Its leadership in the Maghreb, extensive African networks, participation in multilateral institutions, and partnerships with Europe, the United States, and Global South nations make it a sought-after partner. Rabat’s endorsement would grant Argentina a vital political foothold in a region where vote consolidation could prove decisive.
Bilateral trade reaches $1.092 billion in 2025
Beyond diplomacy, the Buenos Aires talks expanded economic dialogue. Bilateral trade hit $1.092 billion in 2025, making Morocco Argentina’s second-largest export market in Africa. Delegations explored ways to increase high-value exports and deepen cooperation across sectors.
Key areas included agriculture, energy, healthcare, tourism, food safety standards, and air connectivity. Officials underscored «the need to build a denser trade framework, align regulatory systems, and launch joint projects in sectors where both economies offer immediate synergies.»
For Argentina, Morocco serves as both an export market and a gateway to Africa. Its automotive industry, fertilizer production, aerospace sector, and textile manufacturing enhance its role in regional supply chains. Buenos Aires views these industries as fertile ground for trade agreements, technical partnerships, and expanded Argentine corporate presence on the continent.
Morocco, in turn, sees Argentina as a key agricultural supplier and a bridge to South America. Discussions addressed sanitary conditions for food exports, energy cooperation, and new air routes to shrink commercial and diplomatic gaps across the Atlantic.
Argentine officials concluded that «relations with Rabat have evolved into a platform for political coordination on global balances, South-South cooperation, and amplifying the voice of developing nations in world institutions.»