Strengthening Collaboration: Morocco's Premier Akhannouch Reinforces Ties with ILO

In a significant stride towards bolstering Morocco's collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch hosted ILO Director-General Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo in Rabat on Tuesday. This pivotal meeting, attended by Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills Younes Sekkouri, marked Houngbo's inaugural visit to the Kingdom since assuming his role.

The encounter provided a platform for in-depth discussions on reinforcing the partnership between Morocco and the ILO, with a keen focus on the nation's ongoing reforms in areas such as social protection, employment promotion, and the creation of decent work opportunities.

During the talks, Akhannouch underscored the ambitious reform agenda underway in Morocco, highlighting recent milestones such as the signing of a landmark agreement with social partners. He emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to advancing initiatives that safeguard workers' rights, foster inclusive economic growth, and promote sustainable development.

Houngbo commended the Moroccan government's priorities, noting their alignment with the ILO's overarching objectives. The discussions delved into future projects, including the pivotal reform of pension schemes and the modernization of labor legislation, reflecting Morocco's dedication to upholding international labor standards.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring the nation's comprehensive approach to addressing global challenges. Houngbo lauded Morocco's efforts in implementing international labor norms, paving the way for a comprehensive evaluation of the country's progress in this regard.

As Morocco continues to navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving labor landscape, this high-level engagement with the ILO sends a resounding message of the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable labor environment. By leveraging the ILO's expertise and global network, Morocco seeks to fortify its position as a regional leader in labor reforms, setting an example for other nations to emulate.

The fruitful discussions between Akhannouch and Houngbo not only reinforce the longstanding partnership between Morocco and the ILO but also lay the groundwork for future collaborations aimed at addressing pressing labor-related challenges. As the nation embarks on this transformative journey, the unwavering support of the international community remains crucial in ensuring the successful implementation of reforms that uplift workers' rights and contribute to sustainable economic development.