On January 8th, 2020, during the 5th session of Morocco and Japan’s joint commission, three agreements were signed that will strengthen the country’s business relations. These include a tax agreement to avoid double taxation, an agreement to protect and encourage investment, and a third agreement for Japan to donate equipment to the General Delegation for Prison Administration (DGAPR).
The Moroccan and Japanese Ministers of Foreign Affairs- Mochine Jazouli and Keisuke Suzuki were present at the official signing. Minister Jazouli spoke about Morocco’s goals to become a prime location for Japanese exports into Africa and the Mediterranean area while emphasizing the importance of diversifying their bilateral relations. Also conveyed was Morocco’s appreciation for the Rabat based Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Founded in 1967, JICA provided financial support to Morocco. Suzuki acknowledged the exchange was “useful” and noted the kingdom’s geographical location is a continuing key factor in boosting Moroccan-Japanese cooperation.
The two countries’ relations have strengthened over the years. In October 2019, Morocco’s Prince Moulay Rachid visited Japan to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Mr. Shinzo Abe. During the meeting, Prime Minister Abe welcomed Prince Moulay Rachid and stated that “I would like to express my respect for the steady and stable development of Morocco under the wise and great leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.” He also stated that “Japan acknowledges Morocco’s essential role in the stability of the Middle East and Africa”.