The African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (GAA): A Key Energy Initiative

In her address, Amina Benkhadra provided an in-depth look at the progress of the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline Project (GAA), a milstone initiative under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. She emphasized that this large-scale project has entered a decisive investment phase and is of fundamental importance for the energy security of West Africa, Europe, and, more broadly, the Atlantic region.

Aligned with regional cooperation and sustainable development, the GAA aims to address Africa’s energy challenges while strengthening economic ties between the countries it crosses, Mrs. Benkhadra asserted. She acknowledged that the project has already passed several significant milestones, and the final investment decision is progressing, with phased commissioning of the first sections expected as early as 2029.

Strategic Partnerships and Global Cooperation

Mrs. Benkhadra highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in ensuring the economic and technical viability of the project. She mentioned ongoing discussions with major international operators, including American companies, as well as financial institutions.

In addition to its energy significance, the GAA stands out for its scale and socio-economic impact. The future pipeline will span over 6,000 kilometers and is expected to serve nearly 400 million people, contributing to the electrification of the continent, where energy access remains limited to just 40% in some countries. Beyond providing energy, the GAA is a catalyst for industrial development, promoting the emergence of new production hubs and stimulating local economies.

Mrs. Benkhadra also highlighted the synergies between the GAA and the critical minerals sector. This key area will benefit directly from improved energy access, fostering the exploitation and processing of natural resources.

Regional Integration and Development in Africa

In his remarks, Ambassador Youssef Amrani discussed Morocco’s role as a leader in regional integration and development in Africa, particularly under the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. He referenced the Royal Atlantic Initiative, a project launched by His Majesty to improve Africa’s access to the Atlantic Ocean, facilitate trade, and promote economic development in landlocked and fragile Sahel countries. This initiative, he stressed, will help these countries integrate more effectively into global trade networks, including with the United States.

Amrani acknowledged that while the U.S.-Morocco economic partnership is strong, it has not yet reached its full potential. He highlighted Morocco’s leadership in energy infrastructure projects, akin to the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (GAA), as a strategic avenue for deeper cooperation.

US-Morocco Partnership

The Ambassador also emphasized the historical and enduring nature of the U.S.-Morocco alliance, stating that “at the heart of this alliance lie both countries’ strong security and cooperation dialogue.” He stressed the importance of continuing to enhance business and economic ties between both nations, particularly in the energy and critical minerals sectors, both bilaterally and at the African level.