Strengthening Morocco’s transport networks: A 365 million euro investment

In a major step toward modernizing national infrastructure, Morocco and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have finalized financing agreements totaling 365 million euros. These funds are specifically earmarked to enhance the safety and resilience of the country’s railway and highway systems.

The first component of this financial package, signed in Rabat, focuses on the national rail sector. This agreement involves a 50 million euro loan from the EIB, complemented by a 15 million euro grant from the European Union. This capital is dedicated to the rehabilitation projects led by the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF). The signing ceremony featured Lionel Rapaille, Deputy Director of EIB Global, Mohamed Smouni, Deputy Director General of ONCF, and Daniele Dotto, Deputy Head of Mission for the EU Delegation to Morocco, with Minister of Economy and Finance Nadia Fettah and EIB President Nadia Calviño also in attendance.

Parallel to the rail improvements, a second agreement was reached with the Société Nationale des Autoroutes du Maroc (ADM). This involves a substantial 300 million euro loan from the EIB aimed at bolstering the resilience of the Moroccan highway network against various operational and environmental challenges.

During the event, EIB President Nadia Calviño emphasized that Morocco remains a vital strategic partner. She highlighted the Kingdom’s essential role as a pillar of stability and economic growth within the region, noting that the EIB serves as a primary investment engine for the European Union’s objectives in the area.

Minister Nadia Fettah reflected on the deep-rooted nature of this collaboration, which has spanned five decades. She noted that the EIB has maintained a permanent presence in Morocco for 20 years, fostering a relationship built on trust and mutual goals. According to the Minister, these new agreements translate into practical improvements for sustainable mobility, delivering modern transport solutions that directly benefit the Moroccan public.

For nearly half a century, the EIB has acted as a cornerstone of Morocco’s development strategy. By focusing on economic growth, social cohesion, and climate-conscious initiatives, the bank continues to drive significant investment across the Kingdom’s most critical sectors.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst