ATLANTIC(SH:600558) Shang Wu Bu Wang Zhan·2025-07-10 02:59Core Viewpoint - The report discusses the potential of Morocco, Nigeria, and South Africa to become a geopolitical engine for Atlantic African integration amidst a shifting global geopolitical landscape [1][2][4] Group 1: Strategic Development - Morocco's Atlantic strategy has evolved through three key phases: strengthening bilateral relations, developing economic diplomacy, and promoting multilateral cooperation [1] - The Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline project, spanning 5,600 kilometers and connecting 13 West African countries, aims to enhance Morocco's role as an energy hub and solidify Nigeria's influence in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) [1][3] - Nigeria's strategy focuses on energy security and regional governance, exemplified by the "Deep Blue Project" to enhance naval capabilities and the "Yaoundé Code of Conduct" for maritime security [1][2] Group 2: Complementary Strategies - South Africa's strategy reflects a dual focus, recognizing the Atlantic's potential while historically prioritizing the Indian Ocean [2][3] - The three countries exhibit significant complementary opportunities in maritime security, logistics infrastructure, and energy integration despite differing strategic starting points [2][3] Group 3: Challenges and Opportunities - Regional cooperation faces challenges such as insufficient political trust, differing development philosophies, and inconsistent infrastructure standards [3] - Disagreements over the Western Sahara issue hinder political trust and regional leadership perceptions, delaying integration efforts [3][4] - Future cooperation could benefit from a flexible, pragmatic approach similar to ASEAN's "island cooperation," focusing on key projects rather than complete institutional unity [3][4] Group 4: Vision for the Future - Strengthening maritime security cooperation, promoting blue economy development, and enhancing regional infrastructure networks could transform the Atlantic from a "sea of competition" to a "sea of cooperation" [3][4] - Achieving this vision requires transcending historical differences and establishing a cooperation framework based on shared interests, which is crucial for Africa's strategic position in the international arena [4]