Rabat — Morocco recently committed to fully supporting small island developing states, least developed countries (LDCs), and landlocked developing nations through effective South-South cooperation.
Abdellah Laghmid, Morocco’s Deputy Permanent Representative to UN organizations in Rome, made the statement during a meeting held on Sunday as part of the 44th General Conference of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
“The Kingdom shares its expertise in key sectors such as sustainable agriculture, fishing, irrigation management, renewable energy, vocational training, and food system transformation, tailored to meet the needs of partner countries, especially in Africa,” Laghmed said.
Leading key climate initiatives
Morocco demonstrates its commitment through several pioneering initiatives, including creating three climate commissions for the Congo Basin, the Sahel region, and island states. These commissions were launched during the 22nd Conference of the Parties on Climate Change (COP22) held in Marrakech in 2016.
Laghmed mentioned that these commitments and initiatives reflect the proactive and solidarity-based vision of King Mohammed VI.
The monarch has placed Morocco’s expertise at the disposal of developing countries through South-South cooperation, triangular cooperation, bilateral relations, and regional and international cooperation channels, he noted.
Atlantic Initiative strategy
The Royal Atlantic Initiative enhances many projects Morocco has developed, aiming to give them a continental dimension. This strategic initiative will occupy a prominent position in the future African Continental Free Trade Area.
“This strategic initiative aspires to transform the Sahel region into an Atlantic highway through structured projects, modern means, and new technologies that achieve sustainable development goals,” Laghmed explained.
Addressing food security challenges
The Moroccan diplomat outlined the structural constraints that burden food security and the resilience of agri-food systems in these countries. He stressed the need to strengthen their food production capacities, improve their ability to adapt to climate change, and facilitate their access to technology, financing, and markets.
Morocco’s cooperation model
Laghmed pointed to Morocco’s cooperation model, based on solidarity and developing practical solutions that align with partners’ priorities.
He called for strengthening technology transfer and ensuring food security remains at the heart of development programs for small island developing states, LDCs, and landlocked developing nations.
The newest pledge exemplifies Morocco’s growing role as a leader in South-South cooperation and its commitment to supporting vulnerable nations in addressing development challenges, particularly in food security and climate adaptation.
