Established in 2004, the Chair is dedicated to studies on Morocco and the Mediterranean region, and supervision of research and publications on the region conducted by teachers and researchers from Oxford, particularly in the fields of political science and international relations and the political economy of contemporary Morocco and the Mediterranean. "The objective that guided the establishment of the Chair is to promote research on Morocco," said Michael Willis, a professor at the Oxford University , noting that this initiative has come to fill the gapin studies found at this level before the creation of the chair.

Created at the initiative of the Moroccan British Society, chaired by Morocco's Ambassador to Britain Chrifa Joumala Lalla Alaoui, the Chair has been working to promote understanding and exchange of knowledge between Morocco and the United Kingdom.

“Studies and meetings held since 2004 have helped raise awareness of Morocco and the reforms it has undertaken in all areas,” said Willis, stressing the important role played by academic studies for enhancing understanding .

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, hailed the initiative of the MBS, saying it "will serve as a bridge for effective promotion of dialogue and understanding between the United Kingdom, the Kingdom of Morocco and the entire region. "

"Morocco and Great Britain are two countries linked by long-standing friendly relations," Willis said, noting that the Chair is activated to accompany the strengthening of these relationships by giving them an important academic and cultural dimension.

More research is being undertaken as part of the chair, which demonstrates the growing interest enjoyed by Morocco, he said.

A series of high level meetings were held during the last three years at St Antony's College, on the reforms undertaken by Morocco in the political, economic and cultural fields.

These meetings have been attended by eminent Moroccan and British intellectuals who have had the opportunity to highlight the Moroccan model and its significance as pioneer experience in the region.