UK-Morocco Business Dialogue: How the UK plans to grow investment in the green energy sector

In a bid to strengthen trade relations between the UK and Morocco, the UK’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates of the Kingdom of Morocco, alongside the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), are organizing the UK-Morocco Business Dialogue as part of activities around the UK-Africa investment summit. The Head of the International Chambers of Commerce Unit at UK Trade and Investment, Chris Southworth, discussed the efforts to stimulate growth and investment in green energy and climate change during a recent CNBC Africa interview. The UK and Morocco share a long history of trade, spanning over 500 years, with a deep-rooted trading relationship between the two countries. Southworth highlighted the importance of collaboration between the two nations to tackle global challenges, particularly in addressing climate change. With the upcoming climate negotiations in the UK at the end of the year, the focus is on finding solutions, such as a carbon trading system, that can be implemented globally. The UK is set to host COP26 in Glasgow, presenting an opportunity for both countries to work together and propose effective solutions on a global platform. One of the complexities faced in drawing up trade agreements at a global level is the diverse nature of the world's economies. Southworth emphasized the significance of strong trading links between countries like Morocco and the UK, which enable them to understand each other's challenges and work towards solutions that benefit both developed and less developed nations. By bridging the dialogue between OECD countries, where the UK is a key player, and African nations, both parties can drive initiatives that cater to the needs of all stakeholders. While acknowledging Morocco's strategic position as the gateway to Africa, Southworth emphasized the need for British companies to increase their presence on the continent. Despite historical trade relationships, the UK has the opportunity to refocus its efforts and leverage its position post-Brexit to champion trade initiatives with countries like Morocco. By actively engaging with the Commonwealth and partnering with governments, the UK can play a pivotal role in facilitating trade solutions that may be challenging for larger trading blocs. Looking ahead, Southworth highlighted the global challenges facing trade, including rising protectionism and complex trade relations between major players like the US and China. As countries navigate through a shifting global landscape, there is a growing need for intermediary nations like the UK to help bridge the gap and facilitate trade agreements that suit the diverse needs of both advanced and developing economies. Despite the tough global trading environment characterized by nationalist and populist trends, Southworth emphasized the importance of promoting free trade and advocating for collaborative solutions that benefit all parties involved. By focusing on diplomacy, leadership, and humility, the UK can play a significant role in shaping the future of global trade relations.