Islamabad: On the sidelines of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers' Conference (ISC) held in Islamabad, the President of the House of Councillors of Morocco, H.E. Mr. Ould Errachid, called on Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, to discuss avenues for enhanced parliamentary and economic cooperation between the two brotherly nations.
Chairman Gilani extended a warm welcome to the visiting Moroccan delegation, commending their active participation in the ISC. He stated that Morocco's engagement reflected its commitment to inter-parliamentary diplomacy and further elevated the significance of the international forum.
He observed that the conference theme, 'Peace, Security, and Development,' mirrors the shared aspirations of Pakistan and Morocco, which are rooted in faith, history, and brotherhood. Recalling Pakistan's early support for Morocco's independence in 1952, Chairman Gilani reaffirmed Islamabad's resolve to deepen bilateral ties through strengthened parliamentary linkages, friendship groups, and committee-level cooperation.
Emphasizing South-South cooperation, Chairman Gilani lauded Morocco's leadership in promoting dialogue among developing nations, noting Pakistan's active role in the Third South-South Parliamentary Dialogue Forum hosted by Rabat. He said such initiatives expand the role of parliamentary diplomacy and create pathways for collective solutions to shared global challenges.
Discussing trade relations, the Chairman highlighted that Pakistan's exports to Morocco stood at USD 0.028 billion, while imports reached USD 0.604 billion during the fiscal year 2024, pointing to opportunities for a more balanced and diversified trade relationship.
He proposed the creation of a Joint Business Council, signing of a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), and exchange of trade and investment delegations in areas such as textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, IT, and renewable energy. He also suggested exploring currency swap arrangements and banking linkages to facilitate smoother bilateral trade.
Referring to Pakistan's 'Look Africa Policy' (2017), Chairman Gilani said Morocco's strategic location and active role in the African Union make it a vital partner and gateway to African markets. He proposed cooperation in agriculture, construction, technology, and capacity-building initiatives.
He further underscored the need to promote tourism, cultural exchanges, and youth programs, expressing Pakistan's willingness to learn from Morocco's model of sustainable tourism. He also suggested organizing cultural weeks and student exchange programs to strengthen people-to-people bonds.
Concluding the meeting, Chairman Senate reaffirmed that Pakistan and Morocco share ties grounded in mutual respect, Islamic brotherhood, and shared values. He expressed optimism that the two countries-along with partners from the Global South-will continue to advance the global narrative of peace, tolerance, and coexistence.