The European Investment Bank’s first official visit to Morocco under President Nadia Calviño has underscored the North African nation’s pivotal position connecting Africa and Europe.

Morocco emerges as Europe’s strategic partner

During her visit coinciding with the 21st anniversary of the BEI’s permanent presence in Morocco, Calviño met with Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. The BEI president reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Morocco’s growth, prosperity and social development, describing the country as “a strategic partner for Europe“.

“Morocco stands today as a cornerstone of stability, security and shared prosperity for both Africa and Europe,” Calviño stated, emphasizing that this visit strengthens the strategic partnership between the BEI and Morocco.

Transport infrastructure takes center stage

Calviño also held discussions with Economy and Finance Minister Nadia Fettah regarding cooperation and investment plans. The visit culminated in several financing agreements combining loans and grants for transport and structural resilience.

The transport-focused initiative includes €365 million in funding, with €15 million allocated as a European grant specifically for climate adaptation measures on the national railway network, managed by the Moroccan Railways Office. An additional €50 million comes as a BEI loan, while €300 million targets highway resilience and safety improvements through the National Highways Company.

This initiative aligns with the BEI’s strategy to promote safer, more sustainable transport systems in partner countries.

50 years of partnership worth €12 billion

Over nearly five decades of cooperation with Morocco, the BEI has mobilized over €12 billion to support diverse sectors including SMEs, renewable energy, healthcare, water and education.

During her visit, Calviño made a symbolic stop at a public school in Rabat to observe a youth musical performance as part of the “Morocco 88” project. This extracurricular music club initiative in Moroccan high schools promotes education, social cohesion and youth development, supported by Morocco’s Ministry of National Education with BEI backing.

The BEI president also highlighted the economic reforms implemented under King Mohammed VI that have strengthened Morocco’s macroeconomic and financial framework, boosting international investor confidence and enabling large-scale investment mobilization.