“During my term as Vice-President of Colombia and as Minister of Foreign Affairs, I had a very clear idea on Morocco’s strategic importance, precisely because His Majesty the King made it not only an attractive country for investments, but also a benchmark country in the Arab World for Latin American States,” Ramirez told MAP.

She added that Morocco, since the enthronement of His Majesty the King, has experienced a great economic boom, which has generated business and employment opportunities, reduced inequalities and strengthened the Kingdom's influence on the international scene.

Emphasizing that Morocco is perceived throughout the world as a true gateway to Africa, Ramirez said that for Colombia, “Moroccan leadership is very important for Africa, Latin America and the world.”

Highly appreciative of the Royal Atlantic Initiative, the former vice-president of Colombia emphasized Morocco's strategic position with two maritime façades, which demonstrate the Kingdom's great capacity to influence the economic and business agenda.

“The improvement in Morocco's economic and social indicators is likely to optimize the scope of this Initiative,” she said.

Noting the “convergence” of interests between Colombia and Morocco, Ramirez underlined the importance of the Atlantic Initiative in consolidating Morocco's position, international leadership and capacity to influence.

“The world needs this (Atlantic) ocean to be a source of wealth, an instrument of maritime transport, and also a space for commitment to the environmental sustainability of the countries bordering it,” she stressed.

Ramirez also dwelt on the situation of women in Morocco, believing that the initiatives undertaken by His Majesty the King in this field have been “very positive” and have led to recognition of the potential, abilities and contribution of women to the development of society.

“Moroccan women are playing a greater part in the development of the economy and business, enabling Morocco to improve its gross domestic product, generate more jobs and guarantee the well-being of families,” concluded the former Vice-President of Colombia.