Morocco and Russia Seek to Strengthen Fisheries Cooperation Amid Tensions with EU

by Fishery News

Rabat: Morocco and Russia have expressed interest in expanding collaboration within the fisheries sector, signalling their intention to explore new opportunities for mutual growth. The announcement comes amidst a recent European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling that has disrupted trade agreements between Morocco and the European Union, particularly those related to agriculture and fisheries.

The Russian Embassy in Morocco disclosed that a Russian research vessel has commenced a mission to study the potential utilization of small marine fish species within Morocco’s Atlantic fishing zone. While the embassy did not clarify if this research aligns with the latest fisheries agreement between the two nations, it underscores the ongoing commitment to maritime cooperation.

In 2020, Morocco and Russia renewed their fisheries partnership with a fresh agreement, replacing the one signed in 2016. This new agreement—marking the eighth since 1992—allows ten Russian vessels to fish for small pelagic species in Moroccan waters beyond the 15-nautical-mile limit.

The renewed focus on bilateral cooperation comes amid a tense legal environment created by the recent ECJ ruling. Earlier this month, the court criticized the fisheries and agricultural trade deals between the EU and Morocco, alleging that they violated the “right to self-determination” for the people of Western Sahara.

Morocco has firmly rejected the ruling, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating that the verdict contains “obvious legal errors and suspicious factual mistakes” and reflects a “misunderstanding of the case, if not outright political bias.”

Despite the court’s decision, Morocco continues to receive strong diplomatic backing from countries such as Spain. In a show of solidarity, Spanish Agriculture Minister Luis Planas emphasized that the ruling would not derail the close ties between Morocco, Spain, and the EU.

“If anyone believed that this ruling would slow down the progress of relations between the EU and Morocco—or between Spain and Morocco—they were mistaken. These partnerships are built not only on practical cooperation but also on mutual trust and problem-solving efforts,” Planas said on Friday.

The European Council also expressed support for Morocco, reiterating the strategic importance of its partnership with the North African country. “The EU values its close relationship with Morocco and is committed to strengthening it further,” the Council emphasized.

 

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