Macron: France Should Take Inspiration from Morocco’s Holistic Water Management Approach

Rabat – French President Emmanuel Macron said today he is “very impressed” by Morocco’s water management approach.

“I am very impressed by Morocco’s strategy in adapting its model through water highways and urban desalination projects,” he said, describing it as a holistic strategy that “France should take inspiration from.”

Macron made his remarks during a meeting organized by the OCP Group to discuss food security and French Moroccan cooperation.

During the event, Macron recalled the importance of building regional strategies, noting also the essential role and efforts of academic researchers and regional organizations to tackle water scarcity.

Macron also discussed the sustainable development of the sector and initiatives launched by OCP, describing it as a fruitful strategy.

OCP CEO Mostafa Terrab also gave remarks at the meeting, in which he renewed the group’s commitment to sustainable development and food security and reiterated how customized fertilizers can unlock the continent’s agricultural potential.

He also emphasized the group’s expertise in Africa, noting that optimized soil can help decarbonize agriculture by contributing to carbon sequestration in soils in addition to increasing yields

Echoing Terrab’s remarks, Macron commented on soil management, expressing the need for a systematic mapping strategy to manage the issue sparingly.

He pointed out the importance of training and research and cited the OCP ecosystem as an example of managing several challenges in the sector.

The French president also noted that over the past 15 years, there have been discussions as to whether the agricultural and agri-food sectors should downscale in order to meet commitments to decarbonization as well as changes in dietary habits. 

Macron concluded his remarks, by highlighting that Morocco and France share a common goal and vision to promote food security.

Macron and his wife Brigitte left Morocco this afternoon after a productive three-day State visit, focused on strengthening bilateral ties in various sectors.