Germany’s Wadephul seeks closer ties with Morocco over renewables

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has called for closer cooperation with Morocco over renewable energy sources in response to the Iran war forcing up oil prices.

“Morocco is a pioneer in solar and wind power on the African continent and is on its way to becoming one of the world’s leading producers of green hydrogen,” he said on Wednesday at the start of a two-day visit to the capital Rabat.

Wadephul is due to speak with his Moroccan counterpart Nasser Bourita on Thursday about expanding relations.

The minister visited an automotive supplier that produces wiring for car manufacturers in Germany, with 7,000 employees at the Rabat site alone.

“That means that many cars made in Germany also contain a piece made in Morocco,” Wadephul remarked.

He also said Germany was “seeking skilled workers” from Morocco, who could receive training and come to the EU’s largest economy to work.

With his jacket off and sleeves rolled up, the German foreign minister later attended a training session for Moroccan female footballers.

Together with former Germany footballer Karim Bellarabi, whose father is Moroccan, Wadephul took part in a short friendly match.