Morocco is a country on which Mali can count as it seeks to achieve peace and progress, said Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga, who also referred to centuries-old neighborly ties between the two countries.
Speaking at a scientific event held last week in Bamako, Maiga said Morocco under the leadership of King Mohammed VI is a partner for Mali’s development and stability.
“In light of historical ties, Morocco appears as if it was bordering Mali,” he said, describing Rabat as a “friend and a brother.”
Morocco has heavily invested in Mali including in tourism, banking, telecoms, farming, education, and health.
Maiga zoomed in particular on Mohammed VI hospital in Bamako, which started receiving patients in July 2022.
He also thanked Moroccan doctors for contributing to improving medical care in Mali and for cooperating with their Malian counterparts.
Maiga made sure to mention Morocco’s non-interference policy in Mali’s domestic affairs, saying relations between Rabat and Bamako are based on a win-win approach imbued with mutual respect.
That contrasts with the recent tensions between Bamako and Algiers. Mali accused Algeria of interfering in its domestic affairs by backing breakaway armed groups and stoking terrorism.