In a ceremony marked by dignity and deep mutual respect, Niger on Wednesday elevated Moroccan Ambassador Allal Al Achab to the prestigious rank of Commander in the Order of Merit of Niger, recognising his pivotal role in strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The decoration was conferred by Niger’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Nigeriens Abroad, Mr. Bakary Yaou Sangaré, during an official ceremony in Niamey attended by government officials, foreign diplomats, and partners from various ministries.
“Allal Al Achab, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco, is concluding his mission in Niger after eight and a half years of loyal service dedicated to strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Niger and Morocco,” said Minister Sangaré.
The minister praised the diplomat’s efforts, describing the moment as one of “great solemnity” and “immense regret,” stating, “It marks the departure of a Great Friend of Niger with whom I shared unforgettable moments both on the professional and human level.”
He recalled that relations between Morocco and Niger were formalised during the reign of the late King Hassan II with the establishment of a joint cooperation commission on April 11, 1982.
Under King Mohammed VI, those ties deepened into a “successful model of South-South cooperation.”
Minister Sangaré also acknowledged Morocco’s support following the events of July 26, 2023, including a notable contribution to Niger’s energy sector.
“Under the instruction of King Mohammed VI, Morocco provided nine electricity generators and accessories to help bolster Niger’s energy capacity during a critical time,” he noted, adding that Moroccan support extended to the training of NIGELEC personnel.
In his farewell speech, Ambassador Al Achab expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerien authorities and people: “This professional experience is one I will cherish deep in my heart for the rest of my life.”
Calling Niger “a great country in terms of its people, its elites, and its wealth,” he commended its resilience and optimism.
“Despite the challenges, Niger has the capacity to meet the immense expectations of its people, who remain confident in a prosperous and bright future for their country.”
The ambassador celebrated the enduring bond between Morocco and Niger, emphasising a thousand-year history of brotherhood and trust.
“This proximity has become stronger thanks to the permanent, close and fruitful contacts of trust created and maintained between our two Heads of State,” he said.
“I was proud and happy to contribute, along with the entire Embassy team, to this rich and long-standing relationship,” he concluded.
Source: ANP