A New Perspective: Redefining Global Partnerships Beyond Traditional Boundaries
In a thought-provoking panel discussion at the Atlantic Dialogues 2025, experts gathered to challenge the status quo of North-South collaborations. The event, hosted by the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), focused on the need for a fresh approach to international relations.
'North-South Atlantic Partnerships: Managing Expectations and Realities'
This panel brought together influential voices from Southeast Asia, Latin America, and North Africa, all questioning the traditional models of cooperation based on dependency. The experts advocated for a shift towards sovereignty, regional integration, and mutually beneficial partnerships that transcend the Atlantic divide.
Morocco: A Strategic Bridge and a Visionary Approach
Omar Hilale, Morocco's Permanent Representative to the UN, highlighted his country's unique position as a connector between the North and South. He argued that Morocco's geographical advantage gives it a pivotal role in shaping Atlantic cooperation. Hilale emphasized Morocco's recent role in providing electricity to Spain and Portugal, showcasing the interdependence between the two shores.
Morocco's diplomacy, according to Hilale, is rooted in South-South cooperation, driven by the vision of King Mohammed VI. He mentioned numerous cooperation agreements across Africa, covering a wide range of sectors, from agriculture to security. Hilale stressed the importance of security for development, citing Morocco's initiatives in the Sahel region, including an ambitious Atlantic corridor project aimed at opening up landlocked countries to regional value chains and enhancing stability.
Additionally, Morocco is taking a leading role in Atlantic African coastal cooperation, uniting 23 countries to tackle issues like maritime security, climate change, and fisheries training. Morocco is also positioning itself as a regional AI hub, supporting African countries in developing their AI strategies.
Hilale emphasized the need for Africa to move away from solely exporting raw materials and instead focus on industrialization, retaining its human capital, and developing value-added production and technology.
ASEAN's Approach: Sovereignty and Strategic Partnerships
Astanah Abdul Aziz, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the Political-Security Community, presented Southeast Asia as a model of flexible regionalism. ASEAN, a diverse group of 11 developing countries, includes monarchies, democracies, socialist governments, and a military regime. Aziz argued that sovereignty is key, and countries should have the freedom to choose their own path, rejecting the notion that democracy is the only legitimate form of governance.
ASEAN, with its 11 dialogue partnerships, focuses on capacity-building projects rather than traditional aid. Aziz's message was clear: "We welcome partners, not friends, where the relationship benefits both sides." She highlighted initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, the world's largest free-trade agreement, and plans to double ASEAN's digital economy by 2030, as well as a regional power grid that could transform least-developed members into major energy suppliers.
Rethinking North-South Dynamics: A Call for Strategic Trade
Renato Flores, Director of the International Intelligence Unit at Brazil's Fundação Getulio Vargas, urged Global South countries to reconsider their approach to trade and resources. Flores argued that countries should use their strategic minerals and commodities to secure specific technologies and best practices suited to their national needs, rather than simply exporting raw materials.
"Let's trade, but let's make it a powerful tool," Flores said, referring to China's use of rare earths as an example of resource control influencing global power dynamics. Flores warned against outdated North-South agreements, calling some long-standing trade deals "zombies" that no longer benefit Southern economies. He emphasized the importance of regional groups like ASEAN, BRICS, and the African Union for trade integration, food security, and poverty reduction.
Flores also cautioned against blindly adopting digital efficiency narratives, warning that dependency on global digital systems could create new forms of North-South dependency. "Use digital tools wisely, and don't become slaves to algorithms," he advised.
This panel discussion at Atlantic Dialogues 2025 sparked important conversations about the future of North-South partnerships. With a focus on sovereignty, regional integration, and strategic trade, the experts presented a compelling vision for a more balanced and mutually beneficial global collaboration. The event left attendees with much to ponder and discuss, inviting further exploration of these critical issues.
