Diplomatic ties approach the 70 year mark while the Moroccan Embassy in Tokyo reaches 60 years. Ambassador Rachad Bouhlal offers insights on life in Japan, the cultural threads that align with Morocco, and the embassy’s enduring mission. He maps areas of cooperation in renewable energy and advanced manufacturing and ongoing exchange in education and culture.
Bridges: How have you found life in Japan and what aspects of Japanese culture resonate most with you in your role as ambassador?
Ambassador Bouhlal: Living in Japan has been an enriching and rewarding experience. As ambassador, I have come to deeply appreciate the elegance of Japanese culture—its refinement, attention to detail, and profound sense of harmony. The values of discipline, respect, and humility that are deeply embedded in Japanese society resonate with Moroccan cultural traditions and with the principles of diplomacy.
What has particularly impressed me is the Japanese people’s sense of community, their commitment to excellence, and their deep appreciation for history and continuity. These aspects provide a solid foundation for building trust and long-term partnerships—something that is essential in my diplomatic mission. Japan’s unique balance between modern innovation and cultural heritage continues to inspire my work as a representative of Morocco.
How would you describe Japan-Morocco relations as we approach 70 years of diplomatic ties in 2026?
Our countries have consistently supported each other in international fora and have developed robust cooperation across a range of sectors, including trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange. Morocco serves as a gateway to Africa for Japanese companies, while Japan is a key partner in Morocco’s sustainable development efforts. This partnership is rooted in trust and a shared vision for a more prosperous and interconnected world.
Japan–Morocco relations are rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development. As we approach the 70th anniversary of our diplomatic ties in 2026, we reflect on a partnership that has grown steadily across multiple domains—from political dialogue and economic cooperation to cultural and educational exchange.
The special historical dimension of our relationship. Morocco and Japan are the oldest Monarchies in the world, and the ties between the Imperial Family of Japan and the Moroccan Royal Family are warm, longstanding, and marked by mutual esteem. These bonds at the highest level have greatly contributed to the strength and continuity of our bilateral relations, reinforcing a sense of trust and shared destiny.
Morocco and Japan are the oldest Monarchies in the world, and the ties between the Imperial Family of Japan and the Moroccan Royal Family are warm, longstanding, and marked by mutual esteem.
Rachad Bouhlal, Ambassador of Morocco to Japan
Which sectors offer the strongest near-term opportunities for trade and investment between Japan and Morocco?
Morocco offers a dynamic and diversified economy with strong potential for Japanese investment, particularly in sectors aligned with innovation and sustainability. Key areas of opportunity include renewable energy—especially solar, wind, and green hydrogen—where Morocco is emerging as a regional leader. The automotive and aerospace industries also present promising avenues, given Morocco’s strategic location, skilled labor force, and well-developed infrastructure.
In addition, agribusiness, digital technologies, and pharmaceuticals are sectors with strong synergies between our two economies. Morocco’s position as a bridge between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East provides a unique platform for Japanese companies seeking to expand their global reach. The upcoming years present a golden opportunity to deepen economic collaboration and co-develop solutions for global challenges.
The New Investment Charter of Morocco, adopted in 2022, provides foreign companies willing to invest in these different areas with various incentives, with a State contribution that can go up to 30% of the amount invested, depending on various criteria.
How has the 60-year presence of the Moroccan Embassy in Tokyo shaped cultural and diplomatic ties, and what is your vision for the next decade?
The establishment of the Moroccan Embassy in Tokyo 60 years ago marked a pivotal moment in our bilateral relations. Over the decades, the embassy has served not only as a diplomatic mission but as a cultural bridge, introducing Moroccan heritage, art, cuisine, and traditions to the Japanese public. From cultural exhibitions to academic exchanges and business delegations, the embassy has fostered a deep mutual understanding between our peoples.
Looking to the next decade, my vision is to further elevate this relationship by expanding people-to-people exchanges, strengthening academic and scientific cooperation, and fostering innovation-driven partnerships. I also hope to see more joint initiatives in Africa, where both Morocco and Japan have invested in sustainable development. As we prepare to commemorate 70 years of diplomatic ties, the focus will be on building a future that honors our past while embracing the transformative opportunities ahead.
