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The Israeli government approved an agreement with Morocco on maritime transport last Wednesday, according to an official statement.
The agreement, signed in Rabat on May 29, 2023, aims to regulate and promote maritime transport between the two countries based on principles of free and fair competition, freedom of navigation, and mutual cooperation.
It covers various aspects of maritime transport, including safety, port access, taxation, dispute resolution, fees, and tariffs. It also provides for mutual recognition of ship documents and guarantees equal treatment for ships and shipping companies from both countries.
Under the agreement, revenues earned by shipping companies from services provided in the other country may be used locally or transferred abroad, in accordance with each country’s foreign currency laws and regulations. The agreement also ensures mutual assistance for ships in emergencies and allows shipping companies to establish representations in the partner country.
A joint maritime committee will be established to monitor the implementation of the agreement and address issues related to maritime transport between the two nations.
«This agreement is another significant step in strengthening relations between Israel and Morocco. Opening trade routes and maritime transport between the two countries will benefit both economies and create new opportunities for cooperation. We are committed to continuing to develop ties by removing barriers and enhancing cooperation across all sectors, especially transport and port infrastructure», Israel's Minister of Transport and Road Safety, Miri Regev, stated.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Ministry of Transport and Road Safety, Moshe Ben Zaken, added: «The maritime agreement with Morocco, under Minister Regev's leadership, will create a stable business environment and facilitate the freer movement of goods. The joint maritime committee will help address common challenges and promote new initiatives. We see this agreement as a cornerstone in building commercial relations and hope to expand cooperation to other transport sectors in the future».
The Israeli government's approval of the agreement comes at a time when relations between Rabat and Tel Aviv are strained, following the events of October 7, 2023, and the subsequent war in Gaza described by many as genocidal against the Palestinian people.
It also comes amid growing calls to block ships carrying military equipment for Israeli forces from docking in Moroccan ports.
