X

UN Chief Highlights Morocco's Sahara Initiative for Sahel Economic Integration

UN Chief Highlights Morocco's Sahara Initiative for Sahel Economic Integration
13:25 Journalists: Dakir Madiha
Zoom

In a significant diplomatic development, the United Nations Secretary-General has brought attention to Morocco's innovative initiative for the Sahara region in his annual report to the Security Council. This initiative, outlined by King Mohammed VI during the 48th anniversary of the Green March in November 2023, aims to transform the Moroccan Sahara into a pivotal economic hub, fostering trade between sub-Saharan Africa and the global market.

The UN chief's report emphasizes the royal vision of utilizing the Atlantic coastline as a gateway for enhanced economic integration between Africa and the Americas. This strategy is particularly focused on providing landlocked Sahel countries with much-needed access to the Atlantic, potentially revolutionizing their trade capabilities.

Morocco's proposal extends beyond mere economic considerations, offering a comprehensive approach to regional development. By providing access to its advanced road, port, and rail infrastructure, Morocco is positioning itself as a key facilitator of growth for its African neighbors, especially those in the Sahel region.

This initiative represents a shift from traditional security-centric approaches to a more holistic strategy centered on economic cooperation and development. It showcases Morocco's commitment to fostering regional stability through economic means, a approach that could have far-reaching implications for the entire continent.

The inclusion of this initiative in the Secretary-General's report marks a crucial step towards its potential recognition and integration into UN policies and projects. It opens the door for the UN executive body to engage more deeply with Morocco's Atlantic strategy, which is firmly rooted in the principles of South-South cooperation and African solidarity.

As the international community observes these developments, Morocco's initiative stands as a testament to the power of economic diplomacy in addressing complex regional challenges. By focusing on shared economic interests and infrastructure development, this approach could pave the way for a new era of cooperation and growth in the Sahel and beyond.


Read more