Latest news with #Rachadi
Korea Herald
31-07-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Morocco marks Throne Day, touts strategic momentum with Korea
Morocco on Wednesday touted strategic momentum in its bilateral ties with South Korea as it marked Throne Day, commemorating the 26th anniversary of King Mohammed VI succeeding his father, King Hassan II. Speaking at a commemorative event, Moroccan Ambassador to Korea Chafik Rachadi hailed his country's macroeconomic stability, a 55 percent rise in foreign direct investment in 2024, and the emergence of Morocco as Africa's largest car producer and a major player in the aerospace industry. 'Over 40 percent of our electricity comes from renewables, and Morocco is investing heavily in solar, wind and green hydrogen projects, aiming to reach 52 percent renewable capacity by 2030,' said Rachadi. He noted the expansion of Moroccan-Korean ties, recalling that Korea's first African embassy was established in Morocco and highlighting Morocco's support for South Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War. Rachadi also paid special tribute to the two Moroccan soldiers who were killed during the war. According to the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, the two Moroccan soldiers were Mohamed El Asry, who died from chest wounds near Wonju in March 1951, and Julien Djian, who was killed in action in July 1953, shortly before the signing of the Armistice Agreement. They were among the Moroccan soldiers who first arrived in Korea as part of the volunteer section of the French Battalion under the UN, deployed to support South Korea, according to the Moroccan Embassy in Seoul. 'Two of those heroes are now peacefully resting in the UN Memorial Cemetery in Busan, a dignified reminder of the human connections,' said Rachadi. The ambassador's residence in Seoul has two mugunghwa trees, Korea's national flower, planted in their honor. Seoul and Rabat established diplomatic relations in July 1962. The ambassador also pointed to the April 2025 launch of negotiations for the Morocco-Korea Economic Partnership Agreement and joint preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, citing these efforts as broader strategic momentum. He thanked Chung Keeyong, Korea's ambassador and deputy minister for climate change, who was recently honored by the King of Morocco with the Order of Wissam Alaouite at the rank of Commander. Chung's contribution included the identification of Moroccan war veterans and the publication of a book titled 'Morocco-Korea: Blood Brothers.' 'We were also able to identify 16 additional Moroccan soldiers, bringing the known total to 24 ... so that Korea may express its enduring gratitude — not only in archives but through human connection,' said Chung in his remarks. Reflecting on meeting one of the veterans' daughters, Chung said, 'Her father's sacrifice is not forgotten but cherished. 'Their courage, offered in a time of Korea's greatest need, has forever linked our nations — not just as partners, but as 'freres de sang,'" he said. Freres de sang is French for "blood brothers." As examples of momentum, Chung cited Korea's solidarity during Morocco's 1975 Green March, uncovered through archival research; joint initiatives such as $100 million in development aid; a reforestation project in Ouarzazate; green hydrogen programs; and a $1.5 billion electric train deal. The Green March is seen as a landmark moment in Morocco's recent history toward securing the Kingdom's territorial integrity. The demonstration paved the way for the Madrid Accords signed on November 14, 1975, which formally ended nearly 100 years of Spanish control over the region. Chung also noted that Morocco's gross domestic product has nearly tripled, and its 2017 return to the African Union and 2022 ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Area have reinforced its role as a bridge between Africa, Europe and the Arab world. 'From the trenches of the Korean War to the sands of the Green March ... Morocco and Korea have always shown up for each other,' concluded Chung. sanjaykumar@
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Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] AGA dean highlights the significance of Korea-Africa relations in era of disruption
Dean of African Group of Ambassadors says time has come to unlock the full potential of Africa-Korea partnership The Korea-Africa partnership is about more than an opportunity to explore shared dreams in a changing global environment, according to Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi, who serves as the dean of the African Group of Ambassadors. 'The Africa and Korea partnership of the 21st century speaks the language of collaboration, equity and long-term resilience. In this era of global disruption, fostering these robust and inclusive partnerships goes beyond economic and political cooperation,' said Rachadi in his opening remarks at the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum on Wednesday. The forum at Grand Hyatt Seoul was co-hosted by Herald Media Group, the African Group of Ambassadors and the Korea-Africa Foundation. Though the cooperation between the two has yet to reach its full potential, the Moroccan ambassador believes that the next decade presents a chance to accomplish a dynamic framework grounded in mutual interest and strategic collaboration. 'Korea's leadership in innovation, digital technology, clean energy and smart infrastructure can meet Africa's growing demand for transformation and inclusive growth. At the same time, Africa's youthful demographics, natural resources and expanding markets represent unparalleled opportunities,' Rachadi said. 'The time has come to unlock the full potential of the Africa-Korea partnership,' he added. While explaining how the African continent has immeasurable potential, as well as geopolitical and economic significance across the globe, the AGA dean underlined the partnership with Korea as a sign of trust, mutual respect and a shared vision for an inclusive future. 'Let us seize this moment to chart a more ambitious course, grounded in mutual benefit, shared prosperity and a deep commitment to Africa's transformative potential,' he said.
Korea Herald
22-05-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
[Africa Forum] AGA dean highlights significance of Korea-Africa relations in era of disruption
Dean of African Group of Ambassadors says time has come to unlock the full potential of Africa-Korea partnership The Korea-Africa partnership is about more than an opportunity to explore shared dreams in a changing global environment, according to Moroccan Ambassador Chafik Rachadi, who serves as the dean of the African Group of Ambassadors. 'The Africa and Korea partnership of the 21st century speaks the language of collaboration, equity and long-term resilience. In this era of global disruption, fostering these robust and inclusive partnerships goes beyond economic and political cooperation,' said Rachadi in his opening remarks at the Africa Day 2025 Korea-Africa Business Forum on Wednesday. The forum at Grand Hyatt Seoul was co-hosted by Herald Media Group, the African Group of Ambassadors and the Korea-Africa Foundation. Though the cooperation between the two has yet to reach its full potential, the Moroccan ambassador believes that the next decade presents a chance to accomplish a dynamic framework grounded in mutual interest and strategic collaboration. 'Korea's leadership in innovation, digital technology, clean energy and smart infrastructure can meet Africa's growing demand for transformation and inclusive growth. At the same time, Africa's youthful demographics, natural resources and expanding markets represent unparalleled opportunities,' Rachadi said. 'The time has come to unlock the full potential of the Africa-Korea partnership,' he added. While explaining how the African continent has immeasurable potential, as well as geopolitical and economic significance across the globe, the AGA dean underlined the partnership with Korea as a sign of trust, mutual respect and a shared vision for an inclusive future. 'Let us seize this moment to chart a more ambitious course, grounded in mutual benefit, shared prosperity and a deep commitment to Africa's transformative potential,' he said.
Yahoo
20-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Country secures $1.5 billion rail deal — here's how it could reshape everyday travel
Morocco has approved a project worth nearly $1.53 billion to install double-decker electric trains across the country. According to Environment+Energy Leader, Hyundai Rotem will deliver the electric trains to Morocco's national railway operator, ONCF, with nearly 90 percent of the parts being sourced from the company's home of South Korea. In an interview with The Korea Times, Moroccan ambassador to South Korea Chafik Rachadi said the deal will set Morocco apart as a global leader in utilizing renewable energy. Electric trains will allow urban and suburban areas to have functional public transportation that does not rely on dirty energy, allowing for travel that is both efficient and green. Morocco's growing investment in solar and wind power further amplifies the environmental upside of this shift. Other cities around the world, such as Boston, have also implemented this technology. In addition to saving on diesel fuel, trains have proved to be an effective method of transport — both on the environmental and individual level. "Companies are increasingly recognizing Morocco's strategic advantages, and the recent $1.5 billion contract between Hyundai Rotem and the Moroccan national railway operator is a testament to the country's attractiveness as an investment destination," said Rachadi. "As a strategic gateway to Africa, Morocco stands out as a leader in sustainable development, renewable energy and innovation," Rachadi said, emphasizing both the political and environmental impacts this new deal will have for Morocco. With construction already underway and regional momentum building, Morocco's rail renaissance might just be the beginning of something much bigger. Would having access to a high-speed train change how often you use public transit? Absolutely Probably a little Not much Not at all Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
