The Canary Islands government has announced the development of its first comprehensive “Canary Islands–Africa Strategy,” aimed at strengthening cooperation with the African continent, with Morocco designated as a strategic priority partner. This initiative reflects a pragmatic approach focused on shared development and prosperity across the Atlantic space.
Speaking at a forum hosted by “Casa África” in Las Palmas, Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo stated that the new strategy will serve as a unified framework to coordinate the islands' various programs in Africa. Alongside Morocco, the plan prioritizes countries such as Mauritania, Senegal, Cape Verde, Gambia, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Guinea-Bissau.
The move comes amid a deepening rapprochement between Rabat and Las Palmas, solidified after the Canary Islands government aligned itself with Madrid’s stance supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan as a solution to the Western Sahara conflict. The position has angered the Polisario Front, which had previously enjoyed political backing in the islands.
During a visit to Morocco in early October, Clavijo described the strengthening ties with Rabat as a “strategic shift” in foreign policy, underlining Morocco’s central role in the Canary Islands’ regional outlook—especially amid Africa’s demographic growth and increasing GDP.
The full framework of the new strategy is expected to be finalized by the end of the year, with a dedicated budget included in the 2025 financial law. A special oversight body—the Canary Islands–Africa Strategy Council—will be established under the presidency of the regional government and coordinated by the Directorate General for African Relations.
The initiative seeks to reinforce the Canary Islands’ position as a European gateway to Africa by launching institutional, economic, and service-oriented partnerships. It also aims to create a sustainable economic growth zone capable of addressing shared regional challenges, such as migration, climate change, energy, and the blue economy.
Clavijo emphasized that the strategy is rooted in an understanding of the priorities of neighboring African countries—insights gathered during field visits. Morocco, in particular, was among the first countries to respond positively to collaboration initiatives, especially in science, innovation, and research.
In October, Clavijo led a high-level delegation of over 40 scientists, academics, and business leaders to Morocco, where he delivered a speech at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Benguerir. There, he expressed a strong desire to “build scientific and technological bridges” with Morocco as a first step toward “smart and sustainable development.”
The Canary Islands president highlighted the importance of developing joint tech projects with regional and international impact. He noted that agreements signed with Moroccan and Canarian universities—alongside European and African partners—would foster an innovative investment environment and generate new economic opportunities on both sides.
Clavijo further stated that cooperation with Morocco also encompasses key sectors such as economy, trade, energy, and the environment. Strengthening the innovation chain between the two, he said, would help “generate shared prosperity and well-being,” while addressing social and economic challenges affecting both the islands and neighboring African nations.
