Xi Jinping Visits Morocco as China Expands Footprint in African Nation
TLDR
- Chinese President Xi Jinping visits Morocco, emphasizing China's commitment to strengthening ties with Africa post-G20 summit.
- China's economic influence in Morocco grows with a $288 million investment in a new energy materials plant.
- Morocco partners with China to establish its first electric battery gigafactory, enhancing its position in China's European supply chain.
Chinese President Xi Jinping made an unannounced visit to Morocco on his way back from the G20 summit in Brazil, signaling Beijing’s commitment to enhancing ties with Africa. Xi was welcomed in Casablanca by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, with Moroccan state media highlighting the visit’s focus on advancing the nations’ strategic partnership.
China has been expanding its economic footprint in Morocco, leveraging the country’s trade agreements with the US and EU. This year, Zhejiang Hailiang Co. announced a $288 million investment to build a plant producing new-energy materials, including lithium-battery foil.
Morocco is also set to host its first electric battery gigafactory in Kenitra, through a partnership between La Caisse de Dépôt et de Gestion and Gotion High-Tech Co. The factory will produce lithium-ion battery cells and packs, bolstering Morocco’s role in China’s supply chain for European markets and aligning with Beijing’s broader push to deepen ties with developing nations.
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Key Takeaways
Xi Jinping’s visit underscores China’s strategic use of economic and industrial partnerships to strengthen ties with Africa. Morocco’s role as a hub for renewable energy materials and battery production aligns with China’s global ambitions, leveraging Morocco’s access to European and US markets. The collaboration also highlights Beijing’s push to counterbalance the US-led global order by enhancing partnerships with key developing nations. The investments in energy infrastructure and manufacturing could significantly impact Morocco’s industrial growth and its position in global supply chains.
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