IRES Head Highlights Morocco’s Mediterranean Energy Impact

On Nov 25, 2023

In a noteworthy address on Thursday, Managing Director of the Royal Institute of Strategic Studies (IRES), Mohammed Tawfik Mouline, shed light on Morocco’s pivotal role in advancing energy sovereignty within the Mediterranean region.

Mr. Mouline delivered these insights during his participation in the 4th international conference “ÁFRICA XXI,” a collaborative effort by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation (FNF) and the Institute for Promotion of Latin America and the Caribbean (IPDAL). He underscored Morocco’s dedicated efforts in the field of energy cooperation in the Mediterranean, particularly emphasizing the strategic responses formulated in the aftermath of the war in Ukraine.

Reflecting on the energy landscape in the Mediterranean basin and the enduring challenges it faces, the IRES Managing Director advocated for intensified cooperation in the region.

Despite contributing less than 6% to global oil and gas production, the Mediterranean serves as a crucial transit zone for international hydrocarbon trade. Mouline highlighted the significance of the Strait of Gibraltar, a major maritime route accounting for over a third of global hydrocarbon traffic.

Addressing current electricity interconnections, Mouline highlighted existing links between Morocco and Spain, totaling 1,400 MW, and outlined plans for additional connections, including those involving Portugal.

Mouline urged for the establishment of a Mediterranean energy pact to address emerging challenges. Citing the energy shock post the Ukrainian conflict, he called upon Mediterranean countries to reevaluate energy security and sovereignty. He proposed the development of a shared energy vision, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050 across the entire Mediterranean basin. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, Mouline advocated for a cooperative framework that encourages dialogue and consensus among Mediterranean countries.

In conclusion, Mouline’s insights provided a compelling argument for a renewed focus on energy security, sustainability, and collaboration within the Mediterranean. This year’s edition of the conference gathered ambassadors accredited to Portugal, senior representatives of the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, international organizations, and experts from African and European Think Tanks and universities.

With MAP