Historic meeting in Cotonou launches new chapter for African Atlantic cooperation
Cotonou became the focal point of continental diplomacy this week as the 7th Ministerial Meeting of the African States Atlantic Process (PEAA) opened under the joint leadership of Morocco and Benin. The gathering, held on Monday, reflects the forward momentum of an initiative championed by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to transform the Atlantic African region into a hub of peace, stability, and shared prosperity.
Led by Ambassador Mohamed Methqal, Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), the Moroccan delegation included key figures such as Tarik Iziraren, Permanent Secretary of the PEAA, Ambassador Rachid Rguibi to Benin, and senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Communities Abroad.
From vision to action: tracking the growth of a continental initiative
The African States Atlantic Process, launched in Rabat in June 2022, has rapidly evolved from a bold vision into a structured framework for regional integration. Among its notable milestones are the establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat, the creation of three thematic working groups, and the adoption of a unified action plan. This roadmap prioritizes political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy, maritime connectivity, energy transition, and marine environmental protection.
Subsequent ministerial sessions—held in Rabat and New York alongside the UN General Assembly, and in Praia in May 2025—have yielded tangible outcomes. Delegates adopted strategic declarations and action plans aimed at deepening cooperation among Atlantic African states, with a focus on maritime safety, fisheries preservation, clean energy transition, and sustainable development.
A turning point for Atlantic Africa
The Cotonou meeting marks another critical step in this evolving partnership. By strengthening inter-state coordination, the forum seeks to accelerate the integration and co-development of the Atlantic African space, ensuring that its vast potential translates into tangible benefits for all member states.
With maritime trade, energy resources, and ecological stability at the heart of the agenda, the gathering underscores the growing recognition that collective action is essential to unlocking the region’s future.