Cotonou gathers African Atlantic nations for strategic ministerial talks
The seventh ministerial session of the African Atlantic States Process (AASP) kicked off in Cotonou today, co-chaired by Morocco and Bénin. This high-level meeting aims to deepen political momentum behind the continental partnership initiative championed by His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
Led by Mohamed Methqal, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), the Moroccan delegation includes Tarik Iziraren, Permanent Secretary of the AASP, Rachid Rguibi, Morocco’s Ambassador to Bénin, and senior officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Abroad.
A partnership rooted in visionary leadership
The African Atlantic States Process emerged from a bold vision to transform the Atlantic African space into a region of shared peace, stability, and prosperity. Since its launch in Rabat in June 2022, the initiative has achieved significant milestones:
- Establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat
- Formation of three thematic working groups
- Adoption of a joint action program covering political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy, maritime connectivity, energy, and marine environmental protection
The successive ministerial meetings held in Rabat, New York (on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly), and Praia in May 2025 have shaped a robust framework for cooperation among Atlantic African nations. Key outcomes include resolutions on maritime security and connectivity, fisheries resource preservation, energy transition, and sustainable development.
Cotonou meeting targets deeper integration
This week’s gathering in Cotonou builds on prior progress by strengthening coordination among member states to advance the integration and co-development of Africa’s Atlantic space. Discussions will focus on aligning national policies with regional priorities to maximize collective impact.