Morocco opened a new Honorary Consulate on Saturday in Gioia Tauro in Italy’s Calabria region to support the Moroccan community and strengthen the ties between the two countries.
Presided over by Morocco’s Ambassador to Italy, Youssef Balla, and the Mayor of Gioia Tauro, Simona Scarcella, a number of prominent figures, including the Undersecretary of State for the Ministry of the Interior, Wanda Ferro, attended the opening ceremony.
Balla said that “the choice of Gioia Tauro as the location for the Consulate was based on several factors, notably the city’s strategic position in Mediterranean maritime connectivity.”
The ambassador added that “the new facility will open up significant opportunities for cooperation with the Port of Tanger Med and contribute to the growth of trade between Morocco and Calabria.”
He further noted that “the establishment of the consulate reflects the strong presence of the Moroccan community in Calabria, which serves as a model of successful integration and enjoys the respect of local and regional institutions.”
Domenico Naccari, the Honorary Consul of Morocco in Calabria, highlighted “Morocco’s growing status as one of the most attractive investment destinations, thanks to the country’s economic reforms that encourage foreign investment and modernizing the economy.”
Ferro welcomed the warm relations between Italy and Morocco, reviewing the numerous agreements that bind the two countries in various economic, social, and development areas.
She further noted the close cooperation by Morocco and Italy, particularly in the fight against extremism, irregular migration, human trafficking, and organized crime.
Mayor Scarcella pointed out that the city is home to Italy’s largest port in terms of cargo traffic and the eighth largest in Europe.