Key Highlights of the First Day of the MD Sahara Forum

Saturday 07 December 2024 - 12:05

The fourth edition of the annual MD Sahara Forum commenced on Friday in Dakhla under the theme "King Mohammed VI: 25 Years of Royal Vision, 10 Years of Progress in the Southern Provinces, A National and Continental Drive Forward."

Held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, this two-day event serves as a platform for dialogue and exchange among distinguished figures from diplomatic, economic, and cultural sectors.

Speaking at the event, the Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, highlighted the profound transformations Morocco has undergone over the past 25 years. These changes span economic, social, cultural, and diplomatic realms, reflecting a Royal vision that places citizens at the core of development, blending human progress with innovation, social justice, and sustainability.

Seghrouchni emphasized the success of numerous initiatives during this period, citing modern infrastructure such as the Dakhla Atlantic Port and the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, which ensure seamless connectivity to international markets. She also referred to the New Development Model launched in 2015, which aims to reframe national priorities and foster sustainable and inclusive growth.

The Secretary of State for Maritime Fisheries, Zakia Driouich, shed light on the integrated and multisectoral approach underpinning the King’s policy for the Southern Provinces. She noted the significant investments in infrastructure, including the Dakhla Atlantic Port, a project with a budget of 10 billion dirhams, set for completion in 2028.

Driouich also highlighted the enduring partnerships between Morocco and African nations, aligned with the Royal vision for sustainable and inclusive development across the continent. This collaboration has resulted in numerous agreements with over 18 African countries, facilitating training programs, knowledge exchange, and expertise sharing. Notable achievements include the construction of artisanal fishing facilities in Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, and Guinea.

Souad Mekkaoui, Co-founder and General Director, noted that the fourth edition of the MD Sahara Forum focuses on two significant milestones: 25 years of King Mohammed VI’s reign and 10 years of transformation in the Southern Provinces. She emphasized the ambitious and inclusive path charted by the King, built on dignity, territorial integrity, and a continental and international presence.

Under Royal leadership, Morocco has undergone a remarkable transformation, redefining its economic and social landscape through major projects. These include highways, ports, and high-speed rail lines connecting the country to global trade routes.

The forum’s agenda features panels on topics such as "Major Royal Projects: A Deep Transformation," "Morocco’s International Presence," "South-South Cooperation and the Role of the Southern Provinces," "Atlantic Morocco and its African Dimension," and "Morocco’s Diplomatic Advances: The Vision of a King."

The MD Sahara Forum embodies a forward-looking vision of a modern, inclusive, and flourishing Morocco where the economy and culture converge to pave the way for a promising future.

The opening session was attended by prominent figures, including the Wali of the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region, Ali Khalil; Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Omar Hilale; as well as elected officials, African ambassadors to Morocco, and consuls general accredited in Dakhla and Laâyoune.