rabat – Morocco continues to build momentum on multiple fronts, demonstrating growth in diplomatic ties, key economic sectors, and crucial infrastructure development. On Saturday, January 17, 2026, officials announced deepened cooperation with Suriname, a record-breaking year for automotive sales, and nearing completion of a vital water management project. These developments signal continued progress toward the North African nation’s economic diversification and strategic partnerships under ongoing government initiatives.
Key developments in Morocco on Saturday, January 17, 2026, include strengthened bilateral ties with Suriname, record automotive sales, and progress on critical infrastructure projects.
Le Matin
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Morocco and Suriname have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation, according to a joint statement released following talks between Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and his Surinamese counterpart, Melvin Bouva, in Rabat. The two ministers signed a roadmap for cooperation spanning 2026-2028, along with agreements focused on diplomatic academy collaboration and renewable energy initiatives. This renewed focus on partnership signals a growing interest in South-South cooperation for both nations.
Morocco’s automotive market achieved a record-breaking year in 2025, with 235,372 vehicles sold – a 33.43% increase compared to 2024. December’s sales figures further bolstered this trend, reaching 27,354 registrations, a 20.92% rise, with passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles driving the growth. The strong performance positions the sector for continued expansion.
Al Massae
Construction of the Sidi Abbou dam, located in Aïn Mattouf, Taounate province, is nearing completion, reaching 99% completion. The dam, with a storage capacity of 200 million cubic meters, is expected to significantly enhance water resources in the Sebou basin region. The project represents a key investment in Morocco’s water infrastructure.
Rissalat Al Oumma
Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas stated that the impact of government policies implemented over the past four years is becoming increasingly evident. According to a recent report from the High Commissioner for Planning, Morocco’s economy has shown notable improvement, with both GDP growth and inflation rates trending favorably. This positive economic outlook could bolster investor confidence in the North African nation.
The French Development Agency (AFD) is committed to fulfilling the pledges made during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Morocco in October 2024, particularly regarding development projects in the Southern Provinces. AFD Director General Rémy Rioux affirmed this commitment during a press conference in Rabat, following a meeting with Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. Discussions centered on the implementation of these commitments and the progress of projects in railway cooperation, water and sanitation, and investments in the Southern Provinces.
Assahra almaghribia
Morocco’s Agency for Medicines and Health Products has published a draft of the Moroccan Guide to Generic Medicines, a long-awaited initiative welcomed by the pharmaceutical sector. The guide is designed to help pharmacists easily differentiate between originator and generic drugs, promoting transparency and informed prescribing practices.
