The European Union (EU) relies on the continuation and sustainability of its fisheries partnership with Morocco, due to its crucial importance in feeding the strong ties between the EU and the Kingdom, said the joint statement issued following the two sides’ review of the four-year fisheries treaty in Brussels.
This was the 5th joint commission between the Kingdom and the EU on this topic, which was an opportunity to examine the results of the last four years, and to possibly renew at the 11th hour the partnership that is slated to end on July 17.
On this occasion, Morocco and the EU expressed praise for their history of cooperation–which has enabled both traditional and industrial vessels to operate in safe conditions–as well as for the Protocol’s transparent and rigorous oversight and consistent, data-driven tracking of the status of marine resources.
The EU would contribute 208 million euros ($233.42 million) over four years under this agreement, in the event that it is reinstated.
The two parties indicated that an emphasis on scientific research is needed to ensure the sustainability of resources.
The EU General Court quashed the said bilateral agreement in 2021 over the Moroccan Sahara dispute.