Rabat – Addressing the 33rd Arab Summit in Manama today, King Mohammed VI voiced his concerns over the lack of progress within the Arab Maghreb Union (AMU) and highlighted the importance of bolstering economic integration and cooperation among Arab nations.
In his address, which was read by government chief Aziz Akhannouch, King Mohammed VI lamented the underwhelming performance of the Maghreb Union, stating, “We can only once again regret that the Arab Maghreb Union does not fulfill its natural role in supporting the common development of Maghreb countries.”
The monarch emphasized the need for the union to play a more proactive role in promoting economic cooperation and facilitating the free movement of people, capital, goods, and services among its member states.
The monarch’s statement comes weeks after attempts by Algeria and Tunisia to engage in discussions aimed at reviving the Maghreb Union project while excluding Morocco, a key player in the region.
King Mohammed VI also expressed disappointment and regret over the lack of economic complementarity and integration among the member countries of the Arab League, despite having “all the assets to achieve this.”
Highlighting the potential for heightened economic collaboration within the Arab world, King Mohammed VI noted the importance of adopting a “realistic approach.”
He specifically called for an approach that “believes in the idea of building a common project and respects the principles of good neighborliness, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity of countries.”
The king urged Arab nations to refrain from interference in each other’s affairs and from “fueling tendencies towards division and separatism.” Instead, he called for working towards addressing shared challenges through dialogue and cooperation.
The monarch’s address highlighted the significance of Arab youth, emphasizing the importance of providing them with better prospects for qualification and advancement.
“It is also necessary to create more job opportunities for these youth in various fields in order to promote their participation in political life and their socio-economic integration,” the King said.
The monarch underlined the need to equip Arab youth with modern educational and training tools, along with creating employment opportunities, to empower them to contribute effectively to society and realize their potential.
The ongoing summit serves as a platform for leaders and representatives from Arab countries to address a wide range of issues pertinent to the Arab world, including political, economic, social, cultural, and security dimensions.
Led by Akhannouch, the Moroccan delegation, which includes Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, is actively participating in the summit. The delegation is engaging in discussions and diplomatic meetings with counterparts from other Arab countries.
