Trade between Kazakhstan and Morocco saw a 70% increase in 2024, reaching $274mn, as the two nations deepen economic and diplomatic cooperation. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, Murat Nurtleu, visited Rabat for the first official visit in the history of Kazakh-Moroccan bilateral relations, at the invitation of Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita.

Minister Nurtleu noted that Kazakhstan views Morocco as a key partner in the Middle East and North Africa region, while Minister Bourita recognized Kazakhstan’s leadership role in Central Asia. Both ministers emphasized the untapped potential in trade, investment, and key sectors such as energy, transport, agriculture, digital technologies, and tourism. Kazakhstan highlighted its export potential of $130mn, offering high-value-added products, including petrochemical and metallurgical goods, as well as food products.

A major development in bilateral relations is the upcoming implementation of a visa-free regime, making Morocco the first African country to establish such an agreement with Kazakhstan. This move is expected to enhance business ties and facilitate greater cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

Food security was also a key topic of discussion. Minister Nurtleu expressed appreciation for Morocco’s engagement with the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) and encouraged Morocco to participate at a high level in the 7th General Assembly of the IOFS, set to take place in Astana this year.

The talks also touched upon Kazakhstan’s major upcoming international events, including the Astana International Forum in May and the 8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions. Kazakhstan extended an invitation for Morocco to participate in both events.

Digitalization emerged as another area of interest, with Kazakhstan expressing its willingness to collaborate with Morocco on its “Digital Morocco 2030” initiative. Kazakh IT companies are prepared to offer pilot projects in e-government, cybersecurity, and innovative IT solutions.

Cultural and humanitarian ties were also highlighted, with both sides noting the success of a joint concert by the Academic Philharmonic of Astana and the Grand Orchestra of Rabat. In the tourism sector, the two nations agreed to finalize an air communication agreement in 2025 and explore the possibility of launching direct flights.

At the end of the visit, both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Kazakhstan-Morocco relations in the political, economic, and cultural spheres. A Joint Communiqué was adopted, outlining the creation of working groups to expand cooperation in key areas.

As part of his visit, Minister Nurtleu also paid tribute to Morocco’s historical heritage by visiting the Mausoleum of Sultan and King Mohammed V, where he laid a wreath and signed the honorary guest book.