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From Hassan II to Xi Jinping: a lasting China-Morocco partnership

From King Hassan II’s landmark 1960 speech at the United Nations to Crown Prince Moulay Hassan welcoming Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Casablanca in 2024, the history of Sino-Moroccan relations is built on enduring bonds and powerful symbols. One of the most significant milestones came in 2016 when King Mohammed VI’s historic visit to Beijing marked the beginning of a decade-long “strategic partnership” between the two nations.

how Hassan II’s historic speech still shapes China-Morocco ties today

In November 2024, as Crown Prince Moulay Hassan stood beside Chinese President Xi Jinping in Casablanca, the echoes of a speech delivered more than six decades earlier still resonated across the diplomatic landscape. That moment in 1960, when King Hassan II addressed the United Nations, planted the seeds of a relationship between Morocco and China that would grow into one of Africa’s most enduring partnerships.

The 1960 speech that changed everything

On the global stage of the United Nations, King Hassan II delivered a speech that would leave an indelible mark on history. His words not only reaffirmed Morocco’s commitment to sovereignty and non-alignment but also laid the groundwork for future cooperation with China. At a time when Cold War tensions divided the world, Hassan II’s message of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect resonated deeply in Beijing.

This historic address marked the beginning of Morocco and China’s diplomatic engagement. It signaled Morocco’s early recognition of China’s global role and set the tone for a relationship that would evolve from cautious diplomacy to a robust partnership built on shared economic and strategic interests.

From symbolism to strategic partnership

Fast forward to 2016: King Mohammed VI’s state visit to Beijing was a turning point. The visit formalized the Morocco-China Strategic Partnership, a milestone that transformed decades of diplomatic goodwill into concrete economic and political collaboration. Trade agreements worth billions were signed, infrastructure projects were launched, and cultural exchanges flourished.

This partnership has since become a cornerstone of Morocco’s foreign policy, positioning the country as a key gateway for Chinese influence in North Africa. The relationship has proven resilient, adapting to global shifts while remaining focused on mutual growth.

Casablanca 2024: a new chapter

The November 2024 visit by President Xi Jinping to Casablanca, where Crown Prince Moulay Hassan welcomed him, was more than a diplomatic courtesy. It reaffirmed the depth of the relationship between the two nations. Discussions centered on expanding trade, deepening investment in Morocco’s industrial sectors, and strengthening cooperation in technology and renewable energy.

The visit underscored how Hassan II’s vision from 1960 continues to guide Morocco’s international relations. It demonstrated that the bonds forged over six decades are not just historical footnotes but living pillars of Morocco’s modern diplomacy.

Why this partnership matters today

The Morocco-China relationship is a testament to the power of long-term diplomacy. In an era where alliances shift with changing global powers, this partnership stands out for its consistency. For Morocco, it has opened doors to investment, technology, and development. For China, it has provided a stable partner in North Africa, enhancing its influence across the continent.

As both nations look to the future, the lessons of Hassan II’s 1960 speech remain clear: mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to dialogue can build bridges that last generations.