Morocco and France signed a partnership agreement to solidify their agricultural and equestrian partnership on Saturday at the 15th El Jadida Horse Show, “Salon du Cheval.”
Several key institutions from both countries are involved in the partnership, including the French Institute of Horse and Riding (IFCE), the French Equestrian Federation (FFE), the Royal Moroccan Federation of Equestrian Sports (FRMSE), and the Royal Agency for the Encouragement of the Horse (SOREC).
Spearheaded by Morocco’s Minister of Agriculture Mohammed Sadiki, the agreement covers cooperation across a range of sectors, including agriculture, forestry, and equine.
The initiative aligns with the roadmap set by both countries’ agricultural ministers on April 22 during the International Agriculture Show in Morocco (SIAM), targeting the equine industry.
The accord also seeks to streamline the exchange of knowledge and facilitate future collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
SOREC Director General Omar Skalli highlighted the importance of “exchanging know-how and training” to enhance both countries’ equine sectors. The agreement targets the development of the Barbe and Arab-Berber horse breeds in particular.
Director General of FRMSE, Badre Fakir, stated that the partnership will enhance bilateral cooperation in equine development and training.
To monitor progress, the parties will set up a steering committee as they plan to review the collaboration’s status before the Paris Horse Show in December 2024.