Morocco’s economic growth has strengthened its stance toward Europe

Morocco has become more prosperous and confident, changing how it sees its relationship with Europe.

The shift is especially visible in Tangier, where a major port, factories and a high-speed rail link have transformed the city.

Since King Mohammed VI took the throne in 1999, the country’s economy has grown, with gross domestic product quadrupling amid heavy state investment.

The change has also shaped tensions over migration at Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, where tens of thousands of migrants entered.

Some Europeans accused Morocco of allowing migrants through to pressure Europe for money, while people in Morocco reject the idea that their country should act as Europe’s border guard.

The dispute matters because Morocco is asserting itself as a regional power and expects Europe to manage its own migration challenges.

Morocco is due to host some matches of the 2030 football World Cup.