Casablanca – In a move designed to strengthen trade and investment between China and Africa, Attijariwafa Bank has entered a strategic partnership with the China Africa Business Council (CABC). This alliance seeks to promote private Chinese investments across the African continent, building on the bank’s established presence in China since 2022 with its representative office in Beijing.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Mohamed El Kettani, Chairman and CEO of Attijariwafa Bank Group, and Bill Ao, Vice-President of the CABC. The agreement outlines a roadmap for initiatives aimed at facilitating Chinese investments in Africa. These include organizing business delegations, hosting industry-specific events, exchanging market information, and connecting Chinese investors with promising opportunities on the continent.

The signing ceremony took place on December 5, 2024, during an event hosted by Attijariwafa Bank under the theme “China-Africa Investment Dialogue: Unlocking Business and Financial Opportunities.” The event brought together members of the CABC visiting Morocco and more than 40 Chinese business leaders and partners, showcasing Attijariwafa Bank’s commitment to supporting enterprises as they expand their operations across Africa.

Speaking at the event, Mohamed El Kettani highlighted the significance of the partnership: “This collaboration with the China Africa Business Council reflects our dedication to fostering strong economic ties between China and Africa. It opens up remarkable growth opportunities for our clients and partners in both regions.”

Youssef Rouissi, Deputy CEO of Attijariwafa Bank, emphasized the role of the bank’s Beijing office as a strategic hub for strengthening China-Africa relations: “Our representative office in Beijing serves as a critical link between Chinese businesses and African markets. It provides access to our extensive network across Africa, offers tailored advisory services, and ensures that projects benefit from local expertise and international best practices.”

On behalf of the CABC, Vice-President Bill Ao expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: “Collaborating with Attijariwafa Bank, a leading pan-African financial institution, is a strategic step to equip Chinese private enterprises with the resources they need to thrive in Africa. Together, we will empower businesses to effectively engage with African markets, fostering sustainable development and mutual success.”

This partnership is part of broader efforts to deepen economic cooperation between China and Africa, leveraging the strengths of both regions. By aligning with the CABC, Attijariwafa Bank reinforces its role as a bridge between continents, facilitating investments that contribute to Africa’s long-term economic growth.