A Historical Perspective
“The inspiring story of Mustapha Zemmouri reminds us that Africa has always occupied a central place in this maritime space,” he noted during the event. The Ambassador drew parallels between Zemmouri’s legacy and the Royal Atlantic Initiative, noting that both exemplify resilience, cultural exchange, and transformation—values at the heart of His Majesty’s vision for enhanced regional cooperation.

A Vision Taking Shape
He stressed that the Initiative is already “a reality on the ground” that is producing tangible results. It aims to establish strategic bridges across the Atlantic Ocean, connecting Africa with the wider Atlantic space as a vital maritime domain. In this context, Ambassador Amrani outlined key elements of this initiative, which include:
• Strategic port infrastructure linking African and American markets to create economic opportunities.
• The Africa-Atlantic Gas Pipeline project, fostering regional integration and generating shared, inclusive prosperity.
• Morocco’s agricultural expertise aimed at addressing food security challenges across Africa.

A key feature of the Royal Initiative is its approach to partnership. “Through this initiative, Africa is at the forefront of new partnerships across the Atlantic,” he explained, underscoring how the initiative changes traditional paradigms of cooperation by positioning Africa as an equal partner.

This approach represents a significant shift from the traditional North-South dynamic that has long characterized Atlantic relations. Amrani said that the Royal Initiative instead lays the foundations for a “multi-directional network” of cooperation that benefits all stakeholders. “This proven approach rightly represents a fundamental change in regional cooperation, giving rise to significant changes and shared prosperity for all,” he concluded.

Strengthening Transatlantic Ties
Other speakers highlighted the symposium’s symbolic timing, aligning with the U.S. celebration of African heritage, and emphasized Estivanico’s contributions to early North American exploration. They underscored the historical ties between Morocco, Africa, and the Americas, reinforcing Morocco’s role in cultural diplomacy. The discussions also focused on fostering dialogue and building strategic partnerships across the Atlantic, with Estivanico’s journey serving as a testament to Morocco’s historical role as a bridge between continents.

Academic and Artistic Contributions
The symposium, supported by Royal Air Maroc, OCP, and the Casablanca-Settat region, also featured a significant academic partnership. A memorandum of understanding was signed between Hassan II University of Casablanca and CUNY’s College of Staten Island, represented by Samira Rguibi and Timothy Lynch, respectively. This agreement aims to strengthen academic cooperation and exchange between Morocco and the United States.

Attendees also had the opportunity to view artistic tributes to Estivanico, including portraits by Abdelkrim Alazhar, an artist from Azemmour, and works by Abdelilah Ennassef, a Moroccan artist based in New York.

The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment to enhancing transatlantic ties, recognizing Morocco’s leadership in promoting a new vision of cooperation and development in the Atlantic space.