Speaking to the Moroccan News Agency (MAP) ahead of Throne Day, Powell praised the kingdom’s economic, social, and infrastructure transformation, saying it has become an indispensable strategic partner for the United Kingdom and a major destination for international investors.
Powell, who said he has witnessed Morocco’s transformation over more than two decades, described the country’s progress as remarkable.
The Labour MP, who also serves as co-chair of the Labour “Friends of Morocco” group, which seeks to strengthen ties between Morocco and the UK, said the kingdom offers “tremendous opportunities.”
“It is truly impressive to see the scale of progress that has been achieved,” he said.
According to Powell, these achievements include infrastructure development, improvements in the education and healthcare systems, expanded housing, and major strategic projects that are reshaping the country over the long term.
He said this momentum reflects the value of governance built on strategic continuity.
Referring to Morocco’s transformation over the past 27 years, Powell said the country’s clear long-term direction is a key factor for investors.
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“What matters, particularly for investment, is that economic players clearly understand where a country is heading and can invest in a sustainable strategy. Morocco has succeeded remarkably in doing that,” he said.
Powell also highlighted the strategic partnership signed between Rabat and London last year under the Labour government, saying it marks a new chapter in diplomatic relations spanning more than eight centuries.
“It is one of the oldest diplomatic relationships in the world, stretching back more than 800 years. I was especially pleased that we signed a new and ambitious strategic partnership aimed at strengthening our cooperation,” he said.
He noted that the partnership covers sectors including education, tourism, trade, investment, climate, clean energy, life sciences, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Powell also said Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal would serve as a major catalyst for the country’s development.
“Hosting the World Cup is a tremendous opportunity to invest in transport, stadiums, youth infrastructure, and facilities that will continue to benefit the population long after the tournament ends,” he said.
He added that Morocco’s recent success on the international football stage reflects not only investment in infrastructure but also a broader strategy of investing in human capital.
“Sport is not just about entertainment. It also creates hope and opportunities for young people,” he said, describing the Atlas Lions as an “inspiring” national team on the international stage.
The Labour MP also stressed Morocco’s geostrategic importance, describing the kingdom as a vital bridge between Africa, the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic.
“Morocco plays a very important role as a bridge between several regions of the world while reinforcing its regional leadership,” he said. “I believe Morocco has a vital role to play, not only in its own region but also globally.”
Powell also pointed to growing interest among British companies in the Moroccan market, saying significant opportunities for economic cooperation remain.
“The opportunities are enormous,” he said, while calling for the ambitions outlined in the strategic partnership to be translated into concrete results.
“It is positive to sign a document that sets out major ambitions, but now we need to turn them into reality,” he said, recalling the enthusiasm shown by British businesses during the recent celebration at the UK Parliament marking the first anniversary of the Morocco-UK strategic partnership.
