Macron Praises King Mohammed VI's Strong Commitment to Advancing Blue Economy in Africa

Tuesday 10 June 2025 - 10:03

By: Zahouani Ilham

Macron Praises King Mohammed VI's Strong Commitment to Advancing Blue Economy in Africa

During the opening of the "Africa for the Ocean" summit held on Monday in Nice, French President Emmanuel Macron praised King Mohammed VI of Morocco for his strong and clear commitment to promoting a blue economy in Africa. The summit was co-chaired by His Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa, who represented the King.

President Macron expressed gratitude to Morocco for hosting the summit and for involving France in this initiative, which he described as crucial for the African continent and the global community. He emphasized Morocco’s leading role in Africa, driven by the King’s vision, particularly in ocean governance, combating plastic pollution, and fostering regional cooperation.

Macron highlighted the significance of the King's message, which was delivered by Princess Lalla Hasnaa, calling it both impactful and strategically aligned with shared objectives. He also commended the “Atlantic Initiative” launched by King Mohammed VI to give landlocked African nations access to the ocean an initiative that reflects forward-thinking leadership.

Recalling the launch of the Tanger Med port two decades ago by the King now the largest in the Mediterranean Macron noted that the upcoming inauguration of the Dakhla port will mark a new chapter for the Atlantic Ocean, opening access for the entire continent.

He underlined the deep-rooted partnership between Morocco and France, two nations united by geography, a shared history, and a common vision for the future.

The "Africa for the Ocean" summit, held as part of the lead-up to the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference in 2025, served as a platform for discussing sustainable ocean resource development in Africa. Key themes included funding for resilient infrastructure, sustainable ocean governance, fisheries management, and improving connectivity between coastal and landlocked countries.