Moroccan mayor: Errachidia seeks to become gateway for China-Africa exchanges

Said Karimi, mayor of Errachidia, a city in Morocco. [Photo/Yongpai App]

Errachidia, a city in southeastern Morocco, is looking to deepen cooperation with Ningbo and serve as a gateway for Chinese investment and exchanges with Africa, said its mayor, Said Karimi, during the 2026 Global Mayors Dialogue in Ningbo.

Karimi praised Ningbo's ability to blend its rich cultural heritage with modern development, describing the dialogue as an important opportunity to connect the two cities and explore cooperation.

Located between the eastern foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the northern edge of the Sahara Desert, Errachidia boasts strong potential in renewable energy, agriculture, tourism, and mining. With around 320 days of sunshine annually, the city is well positioned for the development of solar energy. It is also a major producer of high-quality dates and attracts nearly 3 million tourists each year with its oases, canyons, and desert landscapes.

Karimi said Errachidia hopes to learn from Ningbo's industrial expertise and attract more Chinese investment in manufacturing, mining and artificial intelligence. The city is also keen to attract more investment in industry, minerals, and artificial intelligence.

"Errachidia is a gateway to Africa, and we welcome more Chinese investors," he said, adding that the local government would help facilitate investment projects.

He also invited visitors from Ningbo to explore the city's landscapes, culture, and cuisine.