Morocco and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday in London aimed at strengthening their cooperation in the maritime sector. The agreement was signed by Morocco's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, and the UK Minister for Transport, Keir Mather, on the sidelines of the 34th Assembly of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The ceremony, attended notably by Morocco's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Hakim Hajoui, marked the signing of an MoU focused on the mutual recognition of seafarers' titles and certificates, in accordance with the IMO's STCW Convention on training standards, certification, and watchkeeping. Framed within efforts to deepen bilateral relations and develop a strategic maritime partnership, the agreement represents a major step forward for maritime safety, the professional mobility of seafarers, and the promotion of international standards in training and certification. It is expected to facilitate employment opportunities for seafarers, enhance the competitiveness of maritime companies, and support the growth of commercial and port-related exchanges. Speaking to MAP, Minister Kayouh welcomed the quality of discussions held with his British counterpart, highlighting the strengths both countries share in the maritime sector. He explained that the agreement will help ease seafarer mobility, strengthen maritime safety and marine environmental protection, and promote cooperation in maritime training and innovation. The minister added that this new stage of cooperation will also bolster the competitiveness of maritime operators and boost trade flows between Morocco and the United Kingdom, particularly in agricultural products.
