The seventh ministerial meeting of the African Atlantic States Process (PEAA) kicked off today in Cotonou, with the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Benin jointly leading the proceedings. This high-level gathering underscores a renewed commitment to strengthening ties among African nations bordering the Atlantic Ocean, while advancing regional integration in line with His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s vision for a stable, prosperous, and shared Atlantic African space.

Delegations and key participants

The Moroccan delegation, led by Mohamed Methqal, Ambassador and Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), includes Tarik Iziraren, Permanent Secretary of the PEAA, Rachid Rguibi, Morocco’s Ambassador to Benin, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad.

Milestones and priorities of the PEAA

Since its inception in Rabat in June 2022, the PEAA has made significant strides, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat, the formation of thematic working groups, and the adoption of a comprehensive action plan. This plan focuses on key areas such as political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy, connectivity, energy transition, and marine environmental protection.

The Cotonou meeting represents another pivotal moment in fostering collaboration among member states to promote sustainable development, enhance maritime governance, and drive mutually beneficial co-development across Africa’s Atlantic coastline.

Agenda and objectives

• Strengthening political and economic ties between Atlantic African countries
• Advancing maritime security and countering illicit activities in the region
• Expanding the blue economy through sustainable resource management and innovation
• Improving regional connectivity via infrastructure and digital integration
• Accelerating energy transition and climate resilience initiatives