Morocco has stepped up efforts to attract British investors, highlighting its economic potential and strategic position as a gateway to Africa during a high-level meeting with business leaders in Manchester, officials said.
Speaking, Morocco’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Hakim Hajoui, said the event formed part of a broader push to deepen economic ties between Rabat and London, building on what he described as more than eight centuries of diplomatic relations.
The meeting brought together a range of companies and stakeholders from northern England, with a focus on expanding cooperation in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, technology and agriculture.
Hajoui said bilateral relations had gained fresh momentum following a strategic dialogue held in June 2025 in Rabat, which elevated ties between Morocco and the United Kingdom to a strategic partnership.
“These exchanges open new avenues for cooperation and investment,” he said, pointing to Morocco’s ongoing reforms and development projects as key attractions for foreign investors.
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Officials highlighted Morocco’s infrastructure expansion, industrial growth and advances in renewable energy, which they said have strengthened the country’s appeal as a stable and competitive investment destination.
Hajoui also underscored the role of Manchester and the wider northern England region in driving future cooperation, noting the area’s strong industrial base and growing international outlook.
Morocco has positioned itself as a hub linking Europe to African markets, leveraging its geographic location and trade agreements to attract companies seeking regional expansion opportunities.
Sectors including financial services, digital technology and clean energy — particularly green hydrogen — were identified as key areas for potential collaboration, alongside traditional industries such as agriculture and tourism.
Officials also pointed to opportunities tied to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal, as a major driver of infrastructure investment and economic activity in the coming years.
Beyond economic ties, both sides emphasised strong political relations between Morocco and the United Kingdom, which have continued to strengthen in recent months.
London has backed Morocco’s autonomy plan for the disputed Western Sahara region as the most credible basis for resolving the long-running conflict, reaffirming its position during talks in April between British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.
Following those discussions, senior British officials said relations were entering a “new era”, citing growing cooperation in defence, energy, maritime security and food security.
British companies have also shown increasing interest in major Moroccan infrastructure projects, including transport systems, stadium construction and urban development linked to World Cup preparations.
UK institutions are likewise exploring financing opportunities for large-scale projects, reflecting confidence in Morocco’s economic outlook and policy environment.
Recent visits by the UK ambassador to Morocco, Alex Pinfield, to cities including Marrakech and Casablanca have further underscored the strengthening partnership, with officials on both sides highlighting political stability and mutual trust as key pillars of cooperation.
As Morocco seeks to attract greater foreign investment, officials say engagements such as the Manchester meeting will play a central role in promoting the country’s economic potential and reinforcing ties with key international partners.
