Morocco and Benin lead pivotal Atlantic African states meeting in Cotonou
The seventh ministerial session of the Processus des États Africains Atlantiques (PEAA) opened this Monday in Cotonou, with the Kingdom of Morocco and the Republic of Benin jointly presiding. This high-level gathering aims to deepen cooperation among Atlantic-facing African nations and advance regional integration, in line with His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s vision of fostering a shared space of peace, stability, and inclusive prosperity along Africa’s Atlantic coast.
Delegations and leadership
The Moroccan delegation, led by Mohamed Methqal, Ambassador and Director-General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI), includes key figures such as Tarik Iziraren, Permanent Secretary of the PEAA, and Rachid Rguibi, Morocco’s Ambassador to Benin. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Residing Abroad are also part of the delegation.
Milestones and progress of the PEAA
Since its inception in Rabat in June 2022, the PEAA has achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of a permanent secretariat in Rabat, the creation of thematic working groups, and the adoption of a comprehensive action plan. This plan prioritizes political dialogue, maritime security, blue economy development, connectivity, energy transition, and marine environmental protection.
A step toward stronger Atlantic African cooperation
Following previous meetings in Rabat, New York, and Praia, the Cotonou session represents another critical step in strengthening coordination among member states. The discussions aim to enhance sustainable development, improve maritime governance, and foster mutually beneficial co-development across Africa’s Atlantic façade.
Key focus areas
- Maritime security: Strengthening collaboration to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational threats.
- Blue economy: Promoting sustainable exploitation of marine resources and fostering investment in coastal industries.
- Energy transition: Advancing renewable energy projects and green infrastructure along the Atlantic coast.
- Regional connectivity: Enhancing trade, infrastructure, and people-to-people ties across Atlantic African nations.



