On 14 October 2020, the Federal Council adopted a specific strategy for the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA Strategy) for the 2021–24 period. It identifies five thematic priorities: peace, security and human rights; migration and protection of people in need; sustainable development; economic affairs, finance, science; and digitalization and new technologies.
These priorities are weighted differently across the various regions and countries. In North Africa, Switzerland's activities focus on good governance, sustainable economic development and cooperation in the area of migration. The political upheavals of 2011 have paved the way for a long transition process in North Africa. Switzerland's commitment is aimed mainly at supporting these countries in their political, economic and social transition. Switzerland supports reforms aimed at improving economic prospects and increasing civic participation.
Foreign policy priorities for the MENA region
Switzerland's priorities in Morocco
The MENA Strategy 2021–24 identifies the following priorities for Switzerland in Morocco:
1. Migration
Switzerland seeks to strengthen the dialogue on migration with Morocco with the aim of concluding a cooperation agreement on migration that could be linked to other cooperation agreements (e.g. on police cooperation, mutual legal assistance and social security).
2. Sustainable development
In keeping with the existing declaration of intent, Switzerland is committed to strengthening cooperation in energy, transport and agriculture. It will help implement the points agreed on by facilitating exchanges between experts and by providing a framework for the projects of Swiss businesses.
Development cooperation
3. Education and new technologies
Switzerland accompanies reforms in the education sector, including in vocational training, by providing strategic expertise and facilitating contact with actors in Switzerland. It supports initiatives by Swiss universities to work with Moroccan educational institutions in the areas of education, technology and innovation.
Researchers and artists who are citizens of Morocco can apply for Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships from the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Scholars and Artists SERI