A significant milestone was marked on Friday, as the 60th anniversary of the Establishment Convention between Morocco and Senegal was celebrated with a ceremony held in Dakar. This event, organized by the Timbuktu Institute–African Center For Peace Studies, brought together diplomats, intellectuals, former ministers, and university figures to honor the historical pact signed on March 27, 1964, which has served as a cornerstone for the exceptional relationship between the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Senegal.
The celebration took place under the auspices of His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal. Ambassador Hassan Naciri of Morocco delivered remarks emphasizing the significance of the convention. He described it as "a founding pact embodying not just the brotherhood between our two countries, but also our shared vision for progress and unity for Africa," inherited from historical figures such as King Mohammed V and former President Léopold Sédar Senghor.
Ambassador Naciri elaborated on the convention’s role as "a living symbol of sincere solidarity and unwavering fraternity," asserting its importance for fostering mutual investment opportunities and mobility for citizens of both nations. He highlighted how the agreement allows Moroccans and Senegalese to live, work, and invest freely and equally within each other’s territories, breaking down barriers and providing privileged status for individuals of both countries.
Naciri's reflections were echoed by Bakary Sambe, the regional director of the Timbuktu Institute, who noted the importance of recognizing historical ties between Morocco and Senegal. He stated, "These ties, rooted deeply in our shared history, are continually reinforced by the consciousness of our community of destiny amid contemporary challenges." Sambe emphasized the strategic relationship between Rabat and Dakar, which should inspire the rest of the continent.
Sambe also acknowledged Morocco's longstanding African diplomatic efforts, which are grounded in centuries-old cultural and religious exchanges, contributing significantly to Morocco's "soft power" across the continent. The event featured testimonies from various notable figures emphasizing the historical importance and future prospects of the Morocco-Senegal relationship, citing the establishment convention as the foundation for this solid cooperation.
The celebratory event included the establishment of a steering committee and the presentation of planned scientific and cultural activities set to take place throughout Morocco and Senegal during 2025. These efforts aim to promote greater business opportunities and mutual benefits for entrepreneurs from both nations, ensuring the convention’s advantages are widely recognized.
Participants at the event discussed the professional opportunities available through the convention, which grants Senegalese residing in Morocco the same rights as Moroccan citizens and vice-versa. This includes equitable access to public and private sector positions and public procurement opportunities. Such specifics highlight the importance of publicizing the agreement to aid businesspeople from both countries.
The backdrop of this anniversary encapsulates not just the achievements of the past sixty years but also points toward the future and collective efforts needed to build upon this historic relationship, ensuring continued growth for both nations.